Vejoi Vero. File Photo
Phek, July 22 (MExN): Vejoi Vero, former minister of Nagaland has passed away on Friday morning at Kohima where he was undergoing treatment.
Vejoi Vero was the founder and first President of Chepoketa Students Union in 1967. He also served as the Vice President of Chakhesang Students Union Shillong (CSUS). He was the first President of Naga Students Union, Bombay (1975).
According to a brief bio, Vero contested and won the 4th General Election of Nagaland Legislative Assembly under the regional party of UDF in the year 1977 from 19th A/C Phek and was inducted as Minister of State attached to Chief Minister JB Jasokie with Law and Justice and Civil Supplies portfolio. He successfully contested in the fifth (1982) and sixth (1987) general election under NNDP and remained as an MLA. He remained active in politics from 1977 till 2015.
During his tenure he brought several developments to the 19th A/C Phek such as: electricity and water supply to Chepoketa, Ketsapo and surrounding villages; Sohomi Bridge connecting Phek HQ with K Khuno, Tühephu, Süthotsü and Kotisuh; Müsürü and Tüsürü Bridges connecting Phek HQ with Khuza, Mütsale village, and Chepoketa towards Zunheboto. “He along with Lalhuma, the then Deputy Commissioner, Phek were the founding fathers of Phek Government College,” the bio stated. He also donated his lands for development in Chepokata village for School, Primary Health Center, and Veterinary Center.
On his demise, several messages have poured in paying him tribute and conveying condolence to the bereaved family members.
Nagaland CM: The Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neipiu Rio expressed deep shock on the demise.
He was known as an upright man and a righteous leader. He was a fine gentleman and a man of conviction who always worked tirelessly for the welfare of the people. He leaves behind his beloved wife, six children and three grandchildren. Rio stated.
“He will be sorely missed by one and all. My family joins me in conveying our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members. It is our humble prayer that Almighty God will give them strength and courage to bear the irreparable loss,” the CM added.
NLA Speaker: Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) Speaker Sharingain Longkumer recollected that Vejoyi Vero was a Member of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for three consecutive terms, i.e. 4th, 5th & 6th House.
In his death, our State, especially the people of Chakhesang Community, has lost a very committed leader who always worked for the betterment of the poor and the downtrodden sections of the society. His contributions shall always be recognized and remembered, Longkumer stated.
On behalf of the Members of the 13th NLA and on his own behalf, Longkumer express condolences to the family with prayer to the Almighty to give strength to the bereaved family to bear the loss with courage and fortitude.
NPCC: NPCC, President K Therie said that “In recent years, he suffered for over 6 years in bed after a stroke. His wife Mrs Atule Vero and children have shown us exemplarily how their love for him was unbroken in upholding him throughout his journey till the very end. Feeding voters, taking care of the sick, giving future and making everyone happy is the life of a politician’s family. A true politician’s family has no time for family and self.”
“Late Vejoyi Vero’s family is one such family,” Therie added in his condolences.
NPF: Leader of NPF Legislature Party Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu in a press note said, “Though I was young, I have been privileged to know him as he belongs to my constituency and as far his political career I found him to be whole-heartedly dedicated to the cause of the Naga people and its welfare.
His demise this morning has come as a rude shock to me as I have never expected he will leave us so soon.”
“At this hour of grief and sorrow, I on my own behalf and on behalf of the rank and file of the Naga People’s Front, convey heartfelt condolences to the family members of my dear elder brother late Vejoi and pray to the Almighty to grant them solace and comfort,” Azo added.
