The Nagas join the world in mourning the loss of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who died on December 26, 2021.
Archbishop Tutu followed in the footsteps of his Master, Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. He was a pioneer in South Africa’s anti-apartheid movement, which helped transform South Africa into what is now known as the free Rainbow Nation. He was also a world-renowned Nobel Laureate. Archbishop Tutu was a gift to the world, and he leaves a legacy of non-violence, justice, and peace.
I met Archbishop Tutu during “A Gala for Liberty,” held in San Francisco in 2008, honoring him with the Alexis de Tocqueville Award for his contributions to liberty and peace. The event was co-chaired by former First Lady of Egypt, Jehan Al Sadat; The Dalai Lama; Lord Griffiths of Fforestfach; Vaclav Klaus, former President of the Czech Republic; and Nobel Peace Laureate Muhammad Yunnus. I had a brief conversation with Archbishop Tutu sharing about the plight of the Nagas.
The recent Oting massacre displays the oppressive world the Nagas still live in, and they will carry on Archbishop Tutu’s legacy in their fight for freedom and justice. As he famously said, “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.” Archbishop Tutu’s honourable fight against injustice and oppression will continue.
Dr. Vikuosa Nienu
nienuv@gmail.com