DIMAPUR — The vice president (Kedallo) of Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN), Namrikiu Zeliang, passed away in the early hours of September 24 at his residence in Kohima after a prolonged illness.
An update from FGN stated that his mortal remains were taken to his native village Samziuram in Jalukie and laid to rest on the same day.
He was a contemporary of national leaders like former president (Kedahge) of FGN, Late Zashei Huire and the incumbent president of the NNC, Gen. (retired) Thinoselie M Keyho.
It stated that from 1950s till his last breath, he sacrificed his whole life and remained true and steadfast to his oath of national service. It added that he loyally served the nation under NNC/FGN for over 60 years.
From a lowly village level national servant, he became the longest serving Midan Peyu (chief commissioner) of his region for over 30 years. He became a Tatar (MP) of the region in 2018 and was elected as the Kedallo of FGN in 2019 till his demise.
“His patriotism is noteworthy and his life exemplary. His principle, ideals and devotion beckons the living today to carry on the task and accomplish the goal of our nation,” FGN said.
He was a recipient of the highest national award “Nagaland Star,” which was awarded to him posthumously on September 24, 2024 by the FGN.
It described his death as a great loss to the nation as it is in dire need of unwavering guidance from senior leaders and elders like him at this critical juncture of chaotic circumstances in the land. It added that his legacy would ever live and remained in the annals of Naga history.
To honour the departed national leader, FGN has declared national mourning week from September 24 to the 30th and that the national flag would be hoisted half-mast in government offices during this period in Nagaland.
It further conveyed condolence to the bereaved family members and prayed for departed soul to rest in peace.