At the Moatsü festival in Chuchuyimlang, Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton urged Naga unity to resolve the long-standing political issue.
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CHUCHUYIMLANG — With a pointed call for reconciliation, Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton on Friday urged Naga tribes, civil society organisations, and various armed groups to come together, saying unity is key to resolving the long-standing Naga political issue.
Addressing a large gathering at the Moatsü festival in Chuchuyimlang, Mokokchung disitrict, Patton drew a parallel with Nagaland’s opposition-less government, stating that all 60 legislators had set aside political differences for the greater cause.
“If 60 MLAs from different political parties can unite, why can’t tribal apex bodies and underground factions do the same?” he asked.
The premier Ao festival, hosted at the Anu Mai Amphitheatre in the state-designated “Moatsü Destination Village,” witnessed vibrant participation from across Naga communities.
The celebration showcased the traditional “Ancha” practice, blending cultural heritage with a message of unity and shared identity.
Also read: Moatsu festival highlights inter-tribal brotherhood
Delegations from Konyak, Chang, Sangtam, and Phom tribes, along with several villages, joined the festivities in traditional attire, while cultural troupes performed to enthusiastic crowds, reflecting inter-tribal harmony.
Highlighting the importance of a united approach, Patton appealed to the armed Naga groups to come under one banner, asserting that a single, collective voice would strengthen engagement with the government of India.
He cautioned that multiple factions weaken the larger cause and noted that there are currently around 33 such groups.
He also called upon major tribes—Aos, Angamis, Sumis, and Lothas—to take the lead in fostering unity and guiding smaller communities, while lauding the Ao community for its contributions to politics, education, and sports.
Strongly condemning election-related violence, particularly in Mokokchung district, Patton urged citizens to uphold democratic values and work towards peaceful coexistence.
He encouraged the people to maintain ties with their ancestral villages and contribute to their development.
Describing the participation of villages from districts such as Mon, Longleng, and Tuensang as “a blessing,” he said that festivals like Moatsü help strengthen inter-tribal relationships.
He also conveyed greetings from Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and called for reconciliation, urging people to “forgive and forget” past differences.
In a development announcement, Patton assured that the Police Outpost in Chuchuyimlang would be upgraded to a full-fledged police station, subject to procedural requirements.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Abu Metha, who also addressed the gathering, echoed the call for unity and highlighted the contributions of the Ao community to Nagaland’s socio-political journey.
He said that the Nagas’ rich cultural heritage sets them apart and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting indigenous traditions.
Metha warned that division and polarisation would weaken the Naga people, stressing that progress can only be achieved through unity. “Nagas can rise and succeed only if we stand united,” he said.
The Moatsü celebration was attended by ministers, advisors, senior government officials, the director general of police, and other dignitaries, marking a confluence of culture and political messaging centred on unity and shared future.