A photo released by the Kitovi-led bloc of GPRN/NSCN shows
‘Naga army members’ together after a mass reunion programme.
DIMAPUR — There seems to be no end to the
leadership dispute between the two splinter groups of the GPRN/NSCN
(Unification), with both sides claiming Gen. (Retd) MB Neokpao Konyak as their
president.
In another development, the GPRN/NSCN led by its “impeached”
Ato Kilonser, N Kitovi Zhimomi, expressed concern over what it termed the
“sudden leave” taken by Neokpao Konyak on the “pretext of medical treatment.”
“Gen. (Retd) MB Neokpao Konyak reported that he was
experiencing health issues that warranted medical attention. To ensure his safe
and timely access to necessary healthcare, the GPRN/NSCN formally requested
support from prominent local civil societies, specifically the Western Sumi
Hoho and the Western Chakhesang Hoho,” the group stated in
a press release issued on Thursday.
According to the group, these organisations were asked to
take utmost care in facilitating Neokpao’s transportation to the hospital for
treatment, after which he was supposed to return to the designated camp.
“However, it has come to light that he proceeded directly to
Samson's private residence located at Thahekhu village, diverging from the
expected protocol of returning post-treatment. This development has raised
questions and concerns among members of the GPRN/NSCN and the involved civil
societies,” the release stated.
The GPRN/NSCN also refuted allegations that Neokpao was
“kept under duress.”
“As the president, we respect him, and with all proper
government protocol, we had sent him with all his personal security guards with
one section of arms in order to escort him and so that he can be safe from any
eventuality and protect his life. This was witnessed by Western Sumi Hoho and
Western Chakhesang Public Organisation,” it maintained.
“Now we are sincerely committed to reunion. It is to be
known that there is no ‘U’ or ‘W’ political nomenclature in GPRN/NSCN. It was
the media fraternity that coined the group’s name as Unification. Since then,
the word Unification was unofficially used till today in order to differentiate
and segregate NSCN (IM) and GPRN/NSCN activity in the press and media.”
The Kitovi-led group went on to state that the “claims for
NSCN (U) have nothing to do with GPRN/NSCN.”
“Initially it was (K), but later it was changed to GPRN/NSCN
in 2012, so we still take and regard Gen. (Retd) MB Neokpao Konyak as our
president. However, we are yet to ascertain whether he is staying on his own
consent or being held captive at the private residence…”
Further, the group dismissed claims of alleged mistreatment
of Neokpao.
“Had there been any genuine hostility towards the president,
we would have taken all the arms belonging to the GPRN/NSCN (NK) government
back without hesitation. Instead, we chose to allow him to retain them while
wishing him a speedy recovery as he seeks treatment. We wish him speedy
recovery and return home soon,” it added.
Naga Army ‘reunion’
In a separate press release, the Kitovi-led group disclosed
that a significant event unfolded on April 2 with the GPRN/NSCN, under the leadership
of its senior Naga Army officials, who took decisive steps towards a “reunion.”
“For the past 11 months, they had been divided due to
interference from unwanted elements that disrupted their cohesion. In a
remarkable display of solidarity, they organised a mass reunion programme at
their general headquarters, located at the designated Khehoi Camp,” the group
informed.
The gathering featured top brass officers from both the
groups, symbolising a crucial turning point in their efforts to overcome recent
challenges and re-establish their collective mission, it stated.
“The official handshake between the Chief of Army, Maj.
General KiyeheYepthomi, and Brigadier Kiyeto Zhimomi of GSO-1 not only aimed to
mend relationships but also to strengthen their strategic direction moving
forward, demonstrating their commitment to the Naga cause.
“More than 200 GPRN/NSCN Naga army members came together
with a message for all Nagas: Too many lives have been lost at the hands of
Naga brothers and the Indian army as well while defending our nation; today, it
is in our hands to steadfastly stand as one and do the immediate needful for
our nation,” the release stated.
(EDIT: 'Western Chakhesang Public Organisation' has been changed to 'Western Chakhesang Hoho' in the story as per the corrigendum issued by the MIP GPRN/NSCN, a day after the original press statement was issued)
