Naga organisations and leaders condole the sudden passing of Naga Mothers' Association President Vilanuo Angela Yhome.
DIMAPUR — Various organisations and leaders have expressed grief over the demise of Vilanuo Angela Yhome, President of the Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA), who passed away in Kohima on July 31 at the age of 67.
In a condolence message, the Naga Hoho stated that Yhome was an educationalist, a champion of women’s rights, a grassroots community worker, and a pillar of the Church at local, regional, and national levels.
“Throughout her stellar and lifelong service, her dedication to and advocacy for peace, justice, reconciliation and dignity for every human being was unwavering. She was a mother figure to every young Naga generation, which was reflected not just in her various services to the Naga Mothers’ Association, but also in her personal and community life," the Naga Hoho stated.
It added that her demise has left a huge vacuum in the socio-political fabric of the Naga people which will not be easily filled and offered condolences to her family.
Ato Kilonser of the Government of the People's Republic of Nagalim, Th. Muivah expressed deep regret and sorrow, describing Yhome as an iconic woman with an amenable demeanour and a soft-spoken countenance.
Muivah stated that she was a strong-willed woman who worked in CSOs in various capacities for the upliftment of women and the Naga public. He noted that she led and lived an exemplary life by sacrificing her all for the Naga society, working with her heart and soul for the just cause of the Nagas.
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Nagaland leaders, organisations mourn NMA president Yhome
The Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) stated it was profoundly saddened by her passing and offered heartfelt condolences and solidarity to the bereaved family and the NMA.
"Vilanuo Angela Yhome dedicated her life to living and working for Peace, Justice, Reconciliation and Human Rights. She has been an unwavering and resilient voice for the Naga people and an inspiration across generations," the FNR stated, adding that in her untimely passing, they lost a dear friend, a gracious leader, and a wonderful human being who was selfless, full of life, and positive energy.
Paying respects on behalf of the Global Naga Forum (GNF), Convenor Chuba Ozukum stated that Yhome was a devoted daughter of the Naga people. He recalled travelling with her over the years to promote reconciliation, relief missions, and consultations on the Indo-Naga political issue, during which she showed calmness, compassion, and unwavering commitment.
He highlighted her role as one of the courageous women leaders who fought for the implementation of the 33% reservation for women in the ULBs of Nagaland.
"She firmly believed that women deserved not merely representation but an equal voice in shaping society," Ozukum stated, adding that she was a trusted colleague, God-fearing, and a firm believer in the vision of a united Nagaland beyond artificial borders.
The Mao Council also expressed deep shock and sadness, describing Yhome as a respected leader who dedicated her entire life to the cause of peace, justice, and the welfare of the Nagas. The council conveyed the council's deepest condolences to the bereaved family and relatives.
The Linguistic Minority Forum of Nagaland (LMFN) and the non-Naga permanent settlers in Nagaland, through Chairman Bishnu Bhattacharjee, expressed profound grief.
The forum highlighted her commitment to women's empowerment through the Church, the Nagaland Catholic Women Association, Tenyimia Women Union, GNF, and other organisations. It described her as a fearless champion of justice, a compassionate motherly figure, and a steadfast voice for the marginalised.