Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio mourns Oking Hospital MD Dr Vikethonyü Kesiezie, praising his healthcare contributions and humanitarian service
DIMAPUR — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has mourned the passing of Dr. Vikethonyü Kesiezie, managing director of Oking Hospital and Research Clinic, Kohima, who passed away on August 17.
In a condolence message issued on Tuesday, Rio described Dr. Kesiezie as a dedicated healthcare professional and humanitarian whose contributions had left a lasting impact on Nagaland’s healthcare sector.
He said Oking Hospital became an important part of the state’s healthcare journey under Dr. Kesiezie’s leadership, contributing to strengthening healthcare services and making medical care more accessible.
Read: Prominent Kohima surgeon Dr Vikethonyu Kesiezie dies at 65
The chief minister also highlighted the hospital’s humanitarian initiatives, including its association with the Smile Train Shija Cleft Project–Mission Nagaland, through which children and adults with cleft lip and cleft palate received free corrective surgeries, medicines and other support.
Beyond his professional contributions, Rio remembered Dr. Kesiezie as a “simple, down-to-earth and kind-hearted person” and a dear friend.
“I will remember him not only as a dedicated doctor and humanitarian, but also as a warm, genuine and gracious friend,” Rio stated, recalling their shared memories of planting trees and visiting orchards.
Describing Dr. Kesiezie’s life as one that had touched many hearts, Rio conveyed condolences to his bereaved family, friends, colleagues and all those mourning his death.
He prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved and for the departed soul to rest in peace.