Our Reporter
Dimapur, Feb. 21 (EMN): Former legislator, and the vice-president of Nationalist Democratic Progressive Partry (NDPP), Kakheho Sukhalu passed away on Friday afternoon after a brief illness, at Eden Medical Centre in Dimapur. He was 62.
Sukhalu is survived by his wife and five children—three sons and two daughters. He was the third child of H Kawoto Sukhalu of Kawoto village in Zunheboto district.
He joined as an active member of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1980, served as vice president of District Youth Coordinator (DYC) Zunheboto in 1981 and worked as the president of DYC Zunheboto from 1982-86.
Sukhalu contested, and won, as an independent candidate from 35-Zunheboto Assembly Constituency in the ninth general elections held on February 23, 1998.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has expressed shock and grief at the loss of Sukhalu. In a condolence message, the chief minister described the departed leader as an energetic and hard working politician, who did many good works for his constituency and the people. “He was an honest and straightforward public leader, who could mingle effortlessly with the masses. His death at such a young age is a big loss for the people of Nagaland, particularly for the people of Zunheboto district.
“He was also a founding member of the NDPP and served as senior vice president till his demise. He was a courageous leader and always stood up for what he thought right and constantly strived to ensure justice to all sections of the people,” Rio said.
The chief minister described Sukhalu as a ‘close friend and a strong supporter of mine’.
“I will miss his presence and his mature advice at this crucial juncture. He has made significant contributions and sacrifices to our society. His positive works and immense concerns for the people will always be remembered by all those whose lives he touched.
“On my own behalf, and on behalf of the government of Nagaland, I convey my deepest and heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family. I pray that God grant them strength and peace of mind in their hour of bereavement,” the message read.