Rev Dr Wati Longchar, Executive Director of Foundation for Theological Education in Asia and Pacific.
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | April 11
The 23rd General Conference of Watsü Mungdang, the apex Ao women’s organization, concluded its two-day triennial conference on April 11 at Town Hall, Mokokchung. Held under the theme “Yakpangsür” meaning “Forerunners” the conference brought together around 800 delegates from 24 town units and six ranges across Ao territory.
Day two of the conference featured two sessions. The first session saw Rev Dr Wati Longchar, Executive Director of the Foundation for Theological Education in Asia and Pacific (FTEAP), as the main speaker, who spoke on the theme “Telemtetba agiyim nung Yakpangsür”, loosely translated as “Forerunners in Decision-Making Bodies.”
In his address, Dr Longchar underscored the exclusion of women from key decision-making spaces in society, pointing out that organizations such as the Ao Senden and Naga Hoho remain male-dominated. “Our society still makes faceless decisions,” he said, explaining that decisions are often made based on assumptions, without dialogue or inclusion, particularly when it comes to women.
He argued that such a system is rooted in a patriarchal cultural legacy, stating, “This is because our culture is still centered on headhunting.” However, he emphasized that culture is not static and must evolve. Drawing a comparison with China, where women often serve as pastors, he highlighted the contradiction in local societal norms where women are systematically excluded.
Dr Longchar called for dismantling these “faceless structures” built on injustice and inequality. “Unless we dismantle it, we cannot move forward,” he asserted, encouraging women to overcome feelings of inferiority and become active participants in decision-making.
He urged women to gain knowledge, express their perspectives, and contribute insights in various fields. “If you don’t have a perspective, how will you be part of the decision-making body?” he challenged the gathering, emphasising the need to come prepared and shift community narratives, even in small circles.
The session also featured exhortations from Thsüvisie Phoji, Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, and Marsanen Imsong, President of Ao Senden. A traditional song was performed by the Changtongya Watsü unit.
In the second session, outgoing officials presented their reports, followed by the nomination of a new team to lead Watsü Mungdang in its next tenure.
The newly nominated office bearers include: President: Tianaro Jamir (Longsa); Vice President: I Tangitla (Asangma); General Secretary: Nokinnaro (Mangmetong); and Assistant General Secretary: Wapangienla (Aonokpu)
