KG Kenye calls for unity and collective leadership in Chizami Range to strengthen Naga society and promote regional development
DIMAPUR — Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs KG Kenye on Saturday highlighted the Chizami Range’s contribution to Naga history, identity and development, calling upon its people to strengthen unity, promote collective leadership and provide direction to Naga society.
Addressing the fifth triennial general session of the Chizami Range Public Organisation, Kohima (CRPOK), as the special guest at the Heritage Bamboo Hall, Kisama, Kenye said the range, comprising five villages, had played a significant role in several historical and social developments.
He noted that the Chizami Range had served as a catalyst in the formation of the Kuzha community, which preceded the emergence of the Chakhesang tribe.
He added that the tribe derived its name from the Chizami Range in 1946, an NEPS report stated.
Highlighting the region’s historical significance, Kenye referred to events associated with the Second World War, stating that British Allied forces had established camps and inspection bungalows in the area.
Japanese forces, meanwhile, had advanced from Imphal through Jessami towards Chizami and Pfutsero, passing through the range.
He also recalled Colonel Brown’s retreat from Jessami to Kohima, stating that Brown had walked for 39 hours through the range.
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Kenye said the region’s rich history and scenic beauty gave it considerable potential to emerge as a tourism destination.
He also highlighted the prospects of the Avangkhu trade centre, observing that it could develop into an important trade route, particularly in view of the prevailing situation in Manipur, and facilitate transit connectivity with Southeast Asian countries.
The Minister further said the Chizami Range had produced numerous pioneers and leaders in various fields, including civil services, medicine, engineering and Christian leadership.
Referring to Reverend VK Nuh’s contributions to the Nagaland Baptist Church Council, Kenye urged the people to take pride in their achievements and refrain from developing an inferiority complex.
Calling for greater unity and organisational strength, he urged members to meet more frequently, foster mutual understanding and work towards providing political and social direction to the Naga people.
He expressed hope that CRPOK would continue to play a meaningful role in the development of society and the region.
Earlier, former CRPOK president Liengute Doulo delivered the exhortation, while CRPOK president Kekhwewe Sekhamo delivered the presidential address. CRPOK vice president Kezüwe Tsuhah led the programme.
The new team of CRPOK for the 2026–2029 tenure was also declared and installed during the session.
The new office-bearers are Kewetso Kenye as president; Kezüwe Tsuhah as vice president; Kevetshelo Venuh as general secretary; Neitshope Sekhamo as assistant general secretary; Chete Lohe as finance secretary; Wetulo Thopi as social and cultural secretary; and Akrolho Wozah as treasurer.
Neipezou Mero and Khronelu Thele were appointed women coordinators, while Kekhwewe Sekhamo, Weneipe Khalo, Mesetsozü Wezah and Meselhinyi Lasuh were named advisors.
A large number of CRPOK members and government officials attended the session.