
Dimapur, January 17 (MExN): The Konyak Union (Myanmar) has called for unity and reconciliation among Naga groups. A press release from K Akham Honwang, General Secretary of the union highlighted the efforts of Captain Atam Rungsung, Public Relations Officer and Chaplain of the Mount Veda Peace Mission under the NSCN/GPRN-IM, as a model for peacebuilding within the Naga community.
Captain Rungsung, supported by the leadership of General Ningkhan Shimray, Chief of the Naga Army, has undertaken initiatives to mend longstanding divisions among Naga factions, the press release informed. It underscored the sacrifices of several Naga leaders, including Major Ngawang, Kilonser Wangpha, and Captain Ngame Kilonser, who have worked towards fostering peace and unity.
According to Honwang, the Mount Veda Peace Mission has intervened in situations of discord among Naga Army cadres, bringing about reconciliation through a process of forgiveness and dialogue. He emphasized that the mission's approach—encouraging leaders and cadres to "forget and forgive" past grievances—has been instrumental in restoring harmony within the Naga community.
Captain Rungsung’s efforts were particularly evident during peace initiatives involving leaders of the NSCN-K groups, who extended their cooperation for reconciliation in Naga-inhabited areas of Eastern Nagaland (Myanmar), it stated. During his interactions, Rungsung reflected on past mistakes within the Naga political movement, lamenting the divisions and internal conflicts that have undermined their collective goals.
Honwang stressed the need for Naga leaders to move beyond tribal and factional loyalties and focus on the collective welfare of the Naga people. He called for changes in the recruitment practices of Naga cadres, advocating for voluntary participation rather than coercion.
“Naga unity must be the cornerstone of our struggle for self-determination,” said Captain Rungsung. “Division, hatred, and condemnation will only waste precious time and lives. We must learn from history and work together as a united people.”
The Mount Veda Peace Mission and leaders like Captain Rungsung continue to inspire hope for reconciliation, urging all Naga factions to prioritize peace and solidarity for the greater good of the Naga people, the press release added.