In this image released to the media, Naga delegates of the Naga Peace Summit V - Naga Reconciliation Process, are seen holding hands as they invoke the spirit of the Almighty during the recently-concluded meeting in June at Chiangmai, Thailand.
Swu, Khaplang, Singnya sign historic reconciliation covenant
Morung Express News
Dimapur | June 15
An elated Forum for Naga Reconciliation today announced to the Naga people that a historic document “Covenant of Reconciliation” had been jointly signed by Isak Chishi Swu, chairman of NSCN/GPRN, SS Khaplang, chairman of GPRN/NSCN and “brig (Retd)” S Singnya, ‘Kedahge’ (president) of the FGN.
“Today, with humility before God and the Naga people, the FNR rejoices at the announcement of a historic document: Covenant of Reconciliation an outcome of Chiang Mai V, June 2009”, stated a press note issued by the forum.
According to the “Covenant of Reconciliation”, the three leaders expressed their solemn commitment to Naga reconciliation and forgiveness based on the historical and political rights of the Nagas. “We resolve to continue to work together in this spirit of love, non-violence, peace and respect to resolve outstanding issues amongst us”, the document signed by the three senior leaders stated. In another significant gesture Swu, Khaplang and Brig (Retd) Singnya exhorted and called upon other Naga groups to join them in reconciling with each other.
In line with the covenant of reconciliation, the reconciliation forum has appealed to the Naga political groups in concern to use outmost restraint in every form to pave the way and work out future course of actions. It also made an appeal, based on the covenant signed to release all cadres held prisoners in different camps at the earliest. The Forum for Naga Reconciliation also appealed to the citizens of the land to render their unconditional support to the reconciliation process.
The Forum for Naga Reconciliation in its acknowledgement and appeal has stated that throughout this journey, God’s leading had been a source of strength and courage. It saluted the leaders for signing the covenant of reconciliation and also for their courage to provide a new direction to the Nagas through “reconciliation and forgiveness”. The forum thanked the many people “among us” and throughout the world for their ceaseless prayers and requested them to continue to share in this ministry of reconciliation. The forum also thanked the churches, the Naga Hoho and all others who have been a constant inspiration to the reconciliation forum.
Quoting Martin Luther who said, “Peace, like war, is waged”, the forum pointed out that alongside many who are working for Naga reconciliation, it was committed to “Naga Reconciliation: A Journey of Common Hope.” It reminded that since the birth of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation in March 2008, altogether ten meetings have been held both outside of the country and in Nagaland as well. The various Naga political groups, the NSCN/GPRN, GPRN/NSCN, NNC/FGN, NNC (‘non-accordist’) and the non-political group – the Peoples’ Support Group, had endorsed unanimously a “meeting of the Naga leaders of the highest level, at the earliest.”
Besides, the same call was heralded during the two significant Naga Gatherings of September 25, 2008, at Dimapur, and the “Naga Convention for Reconciliation and Peace” February 21-22, 2009, at Kohima. “As per the mandate of the Naga people, the FNR’s effort continues, with commitment to God and the Naga people”, the forum stated.
Programme of action for Naga reconciliation
Dimapur, June 15 (Mexn): Convenor of Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) Rev Dr Wati Aier has said that the process of reconciliation will continue into the next phase, which is expected to take up a programme of action for Naga reconciliation. Speaking to The Morung Express after the announcement of the signing of the covenant of reconciliation by the NSCNs and FGN, the forum’s convenor disclosed that the programme of action would be chalked out with the groups in concern with the objective of strengthening the process. Dr Wati said that the groups will also have to bring into the dialogue forum, key issues they want to tackle first. While refusing to divulge details, Dr Wati nevertheless said that the expectation included among others exploring a common political platform, identifying future tasks facing the Naga people and establishing a closer working relationship.
