Western Naga Youth Front launched in Dimapur with Aga Rengma elected president; leaders highlight youth unity and welfare objectives.
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DIMAPUR — The Western Naga Youth Front (WNYF) was formally launched on Saturday at Senden Riju near ISTBS at Purana Bazar, Dimapur, with Aga Rengma elected as the president for the 2026–2028 tenure.
Delivering the acceptance speech, the newly elected president said that after more than a year of efforts to come together as one family, they have finally achieved success and thanked the elders and fellow members for their support and cooperation.
On behalf of the new team, Rengma assured that they will carry out their responsibilities with commitment and work for the welfare of society, especially the youth. He also added that they will strive to maintain unity and brotherhood among Nagas and remain open to other youth organisations that have yet to join them.
Also read: CYO, WSYF oppose launch of ‘Western Naga Youth Front’, warn members against joining
During an interaction with media persons regarding the Western Sumi Youth Front and the Chakhroma Youth Organisation preventing its members from joining the organisation, Rengma said that a similar issue had occurred last year when the formation of the Western Naga Youth Front was initially opposed.
He said the idea behind WNYF was initiated in order to bring together all Naga youth organisations under one umbrella to collectively address challenges and work for the welfare of the people. He also recalled that both organisations had initially attended discussions during the early stage of the initiative.
However, later they chose not to join due to an existing agreement between apex bodies (Western Sumi Hoho and Chakhroma Public Organisation) which had passed a resolution restricting their members from joining or affiliating with other organisations without their approval.
He further clarified that WNYF has no political motive and was formed solely for social welfare, security, and the uplift of youth.
Responding to whether the recent press statement would create animosity, he said they have nothing against them and will focus on working towards their objectives.
He also added that while WNYF does not claim jurisdiction, the districts of Chümoukedima, Niuland, and Dimapur belong to the Nagas collectively, and the organisation believes in standing for its members wherever they are.
Highlighting the history and formation of WNYF, co-convenor Tia Longchar said that the front was first launched as an interim body on October 24, 2024.
He stated that the present generation now carries the responsibility of making decisions that will shape the future, adding that while some may choose not to walk the same path, the purpose of the organisation will ultimately be judged by the work and positive outcomes it produces.
Longchar shared that although some members were not present, he remains hopeful that through dialogue and mutual understanding, any misunderstandings can be resolved in the future.
He added that the formation of the youth organisation emerged from a sincere motive and a collective desire to address the concerns of the younger generation.
He further stated that the issue is not about any single tribe or individual but about the collective future of the Naga people. Referring to a meeting held at Saramati on October 12, 2024, he said 19 organisations and tribal bodies resolved to unite to address challenges affecting the youth, including rising unemployment and extortion.
The other office bearers include Neisapa Soho (vice president), Imtirong Amri (assistant general secretary), Nukuzo Dozo (grievances cell secretary), Rankathung Ezung and Temsumeren Jamir (finance secretaries), Achumthung Tsopoe (treasurer), Aso M Imsong and Kiheukigumbe Riame (social and cultural secretaries). Illiegonbe Miliang and Lea have been assigned as press and media in-charge.