Vice President (HQ) Elect, NNC, Zapu-o Zhasa, NNC members and other leaders from Kigwema village during the reception programme held at KVC Hall on July 11. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Kohima | July 11
A reception was held at the Kigwema Village Council Hall on Saturday in honour of Zapu-o Zhasa following his election as Vice President (HQ) of the Naga National Council (NNC).
Addressing the gathering, Zhasa thanked the NNC leadership and members for entrusting him with the responsibility and pledged to serve the organisation with dedication. He also sought the continued support of party leaders and workers in advancing its objectives.
Recalling his early association with the Naga national movement, Zhasa said he was inspired by Neilhounyü Yhokha of Kigwema village, who had been educated and closely associated with A Z Phizo. He said Phizo's stay in Kigwema motivated him to join the movement at a young age.
Zhasa attributed his appointment to the values of truthfulness, honesty and courage upheld by the people of his village, saying these principles had guided him throughout his public life.
Describing himself as a servant of the people, he said he would remain guided by the aspirations, shared dreams and collective vision of the Naga people. He also called for steadfastness in truth and perseverance in honouring the sacrifices made by earlier generations.
Speaking on the occasion, NNC Central Executive Committee member Zapuvisie Lhousa said the Naga national movement was born out of the people's desire to safeguard their identity, dignity and right to determine their future. While opinions may differ on various issues, he said commitment to preserving Naga history and identity must remain unwavering.
Chairman of the Kigwema Village Council, Khomeze Jacob Mera, delivered the introductory address.
Vikhwe Kiso, Gaon Bura and former chairman of the village council, spoke on the theme "Nationalism in My Perspective". He urged people to remain steadfast in protecting Naga identity despite divisions and other challenges, and called for unity of purpose and wise decision-making.
Short speeches were also delivered by Angami Region Council, NNC president Zhale Nakhro and NNC Tatar Sato Gwirie.
The programme was chaired by Mezhüvi Thorie, Social and Cultural Secretary of the Angami Youth Organisation. Rev Mekhale Yhoshü, Pastor of Kigwema Baptist Church, offered the invocation, while Seyiekole Bio presented a special number. The vote of thanks was delivered by Kigwema Village Council vice-chairman Thinozelhou Neihu.
