Members of GPRN/NSCN (Neokpao–Alezo) during an emergency meeting held in Zunheboto on January 21. [Photo Courtesy: MIP GPRN/NSCN (Neokpao–Alezo)]
Says ground reality contradicts claims, reaffirms support for duo leadership
Dimapur, January 21 (MExN): The GPRN/NSCN (Neokpao–Alezo) on Tuesday described reports of an alleged mass defection in the Sumi Region as “misleading narratives,” asserting that the situation on the ground does not reflect claims circulating in public.
In an official statement issued by its Ministry of Information and Publicity, the GPRN/NSCN (Neokpao–Alezo) made the assertion, noting that it was necessary to “dispel prevailing confusion and set the record straight among the Naga people.”
According to the statement, an emergency meeting was convened on January 21 in Zunheboto by the Kilonser, Ministry of Kilo Affairs, Huvito Yepthomi, in coordination with the Sumi Regional Authority.
The meeting was attended by a “significant number” of workers from the Sumi Region, it maintained, despite reports alleging large-scale defection.
Except for a small handful of individuals who defected alongside Hokishe Zhimomi, the former Regional Administrative Officer (RAO), the GPRN/NSCN (Neokpao–Alezo) asserted, rejecting narratives suggesting otherwise.
Kilo Affairs Kilonser Yepthomi, who has been monitoring developments in the region amid what it termed widespread misinformation and misunderstanding, expressed surprise and encouragement after witnessing the ground reality, it said.
An overwhelming number of workers from the region attended the meeting, where they categorically condemned the “deceptive and treacherous actions” of their defected former leader and reaffirmed their unwavering loyalty and support for the leadership of President General (Retired) MB Neokpao Konyak and Ato Kilonser Alezo Venuh, it added.
At the meeting, Yepthomi also reminded workers that the present unification under the current leadership was not born out of expediency but emerged from the collective aspiration of the Naga people, including calls from various civil society organisations, in pursuit of peace, unity and harmony.
He further urged all workers to continue their service with resilience and renewed commitment, guided by Christian principles and the vision of “Nagaland for Christ,” as articulated by earlier leaders, the statement added.
