Dimapur, October 31 (MExN): The Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) on Saturday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of General (Retd) Thinoselie Keyho, honouring him as a respected leader, patriot, and peacemaker who stood firm in his support for the Naga reconciliation process.
In a statement issued here, the FNR said it joins the bereaved family, friends, and the Naga people in mourning the departure of the “beloved” General.
Recalling his contribution to the peace process, the FNR said Thinoselie, from the inception of the Forum, stood firm in his encouragement and support for reconciliation, firmly believing that all Naga political groups and the Naga public must come together on the basis of the historical and political rights of the Naga people. His conviction, the forum said, was grounded in a deep concern for the future and well-being of the Nagas.
The FNR recalled that in August 2008, despite many challenges, Thinoselie travelled to Chiang Mai, Thailand, to participate in the Naga reconciliation talks. During that historic gathering, he spoke words that “continue to echo with passion and truth”: “Unless Nagas are willing to leave our differences and unite upon the principle of the Naga Plebiscite of 1951, our future looks dim.”
His voice, the statement said, was the voice of a patriot who understood that reconciliation is a necessity for the survival of the Naga people.
Stating that another Naga stalwart has gone to his eternal home, the FNR said in his home-going, the Naga people have lost a courageous leader and a steadfast advocate of unity.
Drawing comfort from the words of Jesus Christ, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live” (John 11:25), the FNR offered its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones, and prayed that Almighty God grant them comfort in this time of sorrow and receive His faithful servant into eternal peace.
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