Pfütsero — The 29th anniversary of the
Chakhesang-Sumi brotherhood meet, held in Pfütsero on Tuesday, reaffirmed a
commitment to resolving all inter-tribal and inter-village disputes between the
two tribes to maintain mutual harmony and brotherhood.
Over 7,000 participants from both communities gathered at
the Baptist Theological College (BTC) ground to celebrate their longstanding
bond, which dates back to a time when both communities lived together in
present-day Chakhesang areas before the Sumi migration to Zunheboto district.
This year’s event marked the ninth such meeting since the
formal establishment of the brotherhood.
Central to the meeting was the adoption of a six-point
resolution, read out by Vihoshe Muru, Convenor of the Joint Literature
Committee. This included the reiteration of 1998 resolution, signed at M Tsugho
village by the Chakhesang Public Organisation and the Sumi Hoho, to resolve all
inter-tribal and inter-village dispute between the two tribes to maintain
mutual harmony and brotherhood.
It was resolved to dedicate and rename the stretch from
Sedzu/ Yeti river to the Zunheboto two-lane road as “brotherhood road” as a
gesture to reinforce the shared identity if the two communities.
The resolution also called for a coordination meeting
between the Chakhesang Gazetted Officers Association and the Sumi Officers
Union Nagaland to promote brotherhood among the intellectual leadership of both
groups. Future brotherhood meetings were scheduled to occur every three years.
Noting the importance of documenting this history, the Joint
Literature Committee was tasked with compiling a comprehensive record of the
brotherhood’s history, incorporating photographic and oral evidence gathered
after the event.
During the event, minister for Road and Bridges, G Kaito Aye
spoke on behalf of the Sumi legislators and expressed concern about the
fragmentation of Naga society. He noted that there has been a mushrooming of
factions among Naga political groups and even among the Chakhesangs and Sumis within
these groups.
He urged the Chakhesang and Sumi communities to serve as a
model for unity and progress within Nagaland, and called for a practical
application of brotherhood principles that extend beyond symbolic gestures. He
urged the two communities to take the lead and bring about electoral reforms
and contribute to peacebuilding in the broader context of Naga society.
Kuzholuzo Nienu, MLA and Leader of the NPF Legislature
Party, also highlighted the need for unity in the face of societal fragmentation.
He emphasised the need to prioritise truthfulness and mutual support to
overcome challenges, while also expressing concern over the spread of
corruption within government, village councils, leadership structures, and even
religious institutions.
Attributing this to self-centredness, materialism, and a
decline in moral values, Nienu called for a commitment to brotherhood through
concrete actions, not just symbolic gatherings, focusing on spiritual renewal,
the preservation of Naga brotherhood, and the resolution of long-standing
political issues. He reminded the gathering of the sacrifices made by their
forefathers in the pursuit of Naga sovereignty.
The event also included speeches from Kashito Yepthomi
(Advisor, Sumi Kukami Hoho), Z Lohe (Former Speaker NLA), Y Kikheto Sema
(Commissioner and Secretary, speaking on behalf of the Sumi Officers Union
Nagaland), and Vekhosa Kotso (DIG PHQ and President, Chakhesang Gazetted
Officers Association).
Earlier, the programme commenced with a welcome address by
CPO President Vezuhu Keyho and greetings from Otoca Chishi, Vice-President of
the Sumi Hoho, on behalf of the President. Theja Therieh, Convenor of the
Organising Committee, delivered the opening remarks.
Cultural performances, including folk songs and dances, were
presented by various groups, and prayers were offered by prominent religious
leaders from both communities.
