NNC president General Thinoselie laid to rest at Chedema

Our Correspondent
Kohima | October 31

Naga National Council (NNC) President General (Retd) Thinoselie Medom Keyho, who passed away on October 30, was laid to rest at his native village Chedema in Kohima district on Saturday.

The funeral service, held at Rüvetsiezou, Chedema, was marked by tributes recalling Keyho's decades of service, personal sacrifices, political convictions and commitment to the rights and aspirations of the Naga people.

At the funeral service, NNC Central Executive Member Zapuvisie Lhousa recalled his friendship with Keyho, which began in 1950 when they were Class VI classmates in Kohima. Lhousa said Keyho joined the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) in 1956 amid political turmoil in Kohima and subsequently endured imprisonment and numerous hardships for the Naga cause. He said Keyho dedicated his life to the national movement, often sacrificing sleep and personal comfort in service to the people.

Another NNC Central Executive Member, Sanguto Chase, described Keyho as someone who gave his entire life to the Nagas without seeking personal or family benefits. He also acknowledged the sacrifices of Keyho's wife and children, who cared for him and supported his commitment to the Naga cause.

NNC (HQ) Vice President Zapu-o Zhasa, who met Keyho in 1966 and accompanied him on the China expedition, described him as a tireless worker who consistently maintained that the Nagas' political rights were distinct and should never be surrendered.

Angami Public Organisation (APO) President Thejao Vihienuo, in his eulogy, described Keyho as belonging to a generation whose lives were measured by sacrifice and unwavering loyalty to the Naga national movement. 

Vihienuo said that while Keyho remained deeply committed to the principles of the NNC, and also advocated forgiveness and unity among Naga political groups and civil society organisations.

Describing him as a leader who demonstrated patience amid disagreements and courage during difficult circumstances, Vihienuo said political differences should not become an excuse to erase history or deny the sacrifices of those who had shaped the Naga movement.

Chedema Village Council chairman Khriekedolie Thevo described Keyho as a father figure and one of the tallest Naga leaders, saying his absence would be difficult to fill. He conveyed the village's condolences to the bereaved family.

Family member Teisovilie Medom remembered Keyho as the kindest person in the family and said his demise left an immeasurable void. He noted that Keyho could have chosen a peaceful life but instead dedicated himself to the Naga cause. He also stated that 16 members of the Medom Keyho family lineage had served as national workers, with Keyho making the most significant contribution.

Chedema Gazetted Officers Krotho president Vikehielie Pienyü said Keyho consistently worked for the social and economic welfare of the village and its people.

In a brief eulogy, Keyho's daughter Akuonuo described her father as patient and thoughtful, recalling that he had wished his funeral to be celebrated rather than treated solely as an occasion of mourning.

Speaking on behalf of the in-laws, retired IAS officer Khekiye K Sema, who said he had been associated with the family for 50 years, remembered Keyho as a humble, gentle and simple person. Sema described him as someone who never displayed his stature or authority and preferred to listen, consult and consider matters before responding. He said Keyho remained steadfast in his conviction that the Nagas had lived as a free people and deserved to remain free, dedicating nearly 70 years to the cause without wavering.

On behalf of the family, Rev Dr Noulezhalie Ricky Medom thanked the villagers, well-wishers, leaders of various organisations and healthcare workers of Naga Hospital Authority Kohima for their support during the family's time of grief. He also expressed gratitude to Rhieo clansmen of Dapfhütsumia Khel for donating land for Keyho's burial.

Delivering the sermon during the final rites, Nagaland Christian Revival Church, President Rev Dr Neikedozo Paphino said Keyho had lived a glorious life and that his life and legacy should be celebrated. 

The funeral service was led by Vimedo Keyho, Associate Pastor, CRC Chedema, while Bible reading and prayer were conducted by Neisatuo Suokhrie, Pastor, CRC Chedema. Special musical presentations were made by the youths of CRC Chedema and Ruovipfüvizo Suokhrie.