Minister Kaito, others condole Dr. Hokishe Yeputhomi’s demise

DIMAPUR — Minister of PWD (R&B) G Kaito Aye, Sümi frontal organisations and others have condoled the demise of Dr. Hokishe Yeputhomi, former president of Sümi Hoho and former chairman of the Sümi Literature Board, who passed away at Eden Hospital, Dimapur, on Tuesday.

Minister Kaito, in a condolence message, stated that the news of Hokishe Yeputhomi's passing has left the Sümi community and the Naga community in deep mourning.  “Hokishe Yepthomi was a respected figure in the Sümi community, he was the former President of the Sümi Hoho and his leadership was nothing short of transformative, fostering a sense of belonging that strengthened the bonds among the Sumi people. He worked tirelessly to ensure that our traditions, languages and customs were passed down to younger generations,” Kaito stated.

“One of his most enduring legacies is his literary contribution, documenting the pivotal moments, the sacrifices and the unyielding hope that defined the Naga freedom struggle.”

Western Sümi Hoho: In a condolence message, the WSH stated that Dr. Yeputhomi was a towering figure in Sümi society and a deeply respected leader across the Naga community.

“His life was marked by principled leadership, visionary guidance and tireless service to the people. A champion of unity, culture and justice, his contributions have left a lasting impact on our collective identity.

“His passing is a tremendous loss not just to his family, but to the Sümi and Naga communities at large. We honour his legacy with gratitude and reverence,” the message read.

GPRN/NSCN (Unification): The GPRN NSCN (Unification) led by Ato Kilonser, Alezo Venuh and President, MB Neokpao Konyak, has stated that with the passing of Dr. Hokishe Yeputhomi, Nagas have lost a “great visionary and stalwart who stood for unity and solidarity of the Nagas.”

In a condolence message, the GPRN NSCN (U) stated that Dr. Yeputhomi relentlessly worked towards putting an end to hostility among the Naga political groups, especially the NSCNs and guided the way for the process of forming unification.

“The basic idea of unification to create a balancing equation in the political movement later paved a way for the formation of Naga National Political Groups. He tirelessly worked for a political solution and provided valuable contributions in the negotiations with the GoI, upholding the basic ideologies of Naga movement,” it stated.

The GPRN NSCN (U) also stated that Dr. Yeputhomi gave highest regard and reverence to the Sümi Martyrs’ Day and Sümi Patriots’ Day, and that his motto “Unification first and then solution” carried great meaning and significance, which led to the beginning of reconciliation efforts.

Kulolau Yeputhomi Kuposhukulu: The Kulolau Yeputhomi Kuposhukulu (KYK) stated that Dr. Yeputhomi’s remarkable leadership and contributions to various organisations will continue to inspire generations. “His demise has left a void that will be challenging to fill, but his legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched,” the KYK stated in a condolence message.

Nagaland Gaonburas Federation: In a condolence message, the Nagaland Gaonburas Federation (NGBF) stated that Dr. Yeputhomi was a man of principle and integrity. He always encouraged our Gaonburas institution and supported its initiative specially Naga political issue. In his demise Nagas has lost an elderly advisor and a great leader,” the federation stated.