Dimapur, July 2, 2025: In a significant show of solidarity and realignment within the Naga political landscape, the Kuki Region led by senior GPRN/NSCN (Alezo–Neokpao) leader and Member of Collective Leadership (MCL) C. Singson, along with Regional Administrative Officer Lenjakam Haokip, has officially declared their full support for N. Kitovi Zhimomi, the Ato Kilonser of GPRN/NSCN and Convener of the Working Committee of the Naga National Political Groups (WC-NNPGs).
The endorsement was publicly announced through a joint statement, backed by over 80 Kuki Region members, including kilonsers, deputy kilonsers, tatars, women wing representatives, and the Athibung command unit. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the Agreed Position signed on November 17, 2017, between the WC-NNPGs and the Government of India, viewing it as the most viable path toward a dignified and enduring Indo-Naga political solution.
“Critical Leadership in a Critical Hour”
Singson and Haokip stressed that Kitovi was the first signatory to the Agreed Position, and described his leadership as “critically necessary” at this historic juncture in the Naga peace process. “We appeal to all Naga leaders to rise above personal differences and prioritize the collective political aspirations of the people,” the statement urged.
The Kuki leaders also called upon civil society organisations, tribal apex bodies, student bodies, churches, the Nagaland government, and citizens to actively engage with the political groups to facilitate convergence for a solution that is honourable, practical, and widely acceptable.
“Kuki Legacy in Naga Struggle”
In a historical reflection, the statement highlighted the enduring role of the Kuki community in the Naga political movement. It pointed out that Lengjang Kuki was one of the signatories to the 1929 Naga Club memorandum to the Simon Commission, underlining the community’s long-standing support for the Nagas' right to self-determination.
This spirit of shared destiny, the statement said, continues to guide the Kuki national workers in Nagaland, who believe in a common future with the Nagas under the framework of peace and mutual respect.
Reclaiming Recognition
In a separately signed policy note, C. Singson, a veteran of various reconciliation efforts including the 2009 Covenant of Reconciliation, expressed dismay that the Kuki contribution has been historically sidelined. He recounted how senior Kuki figures were integral to the early Naga National Council (NNC), and yet their legacy has been overshadowed by factionalism and political marginalisation.
He described the current situation as a moment to “correct the course” and rally around Kitovi’s leadership, asserting, “I have found no better political slogan than the clarion call for re-unification.”
Moving Forward with Unity
With widespread support now flowing from the Kuki Region, the WC-NNPGs under Kitovi Zhimomi’s leadership has received a strong endorsement from a vital stakeholder group. The joint declaration signals a potential shift in internal political dynamics and could add momentum to efforts aimed at resolving the decades-old Indo-Naga political issue.
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The leaders concluded with a call for unity, dialogue, and renewed commitment to a shared future—one that upholds the rights and dignity of all communities involved.
