WC NNPGs refutes allegations, reaffirms Kitovi Zhimomi’s leadership

The Working Committee of the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) led by N Kitovi Zhimomi has issued a strong clarification regarding recent claims about his removal as Convener. In a statement, the Working Committee asserted that the allegations are “baseless” and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining unity within the group.

The statement, issued by the Co-Conveners and signatories of the Agreed Position, “unequivocally reject and refute the recent press release from the newly established Working Committee” and emphasized that “no such agreement or approval has ever been reached in any meetings” regarding Kitovi Zhimomi’s removal.

According to the Working Committee, concerns were raised during a recent meeting about “potential legal action” against Co-Conveners who supported Kitovi Zhimomi. The statement criticized such warnings as “unprofessional and unethical, particularly given the responsibilities associated with leadership within the Khehoi camp.”

In a notable development, a show-cause notice was reportedly issued to Co-Conveners Toshi Walling and Kiumukam by individuals who, according to the statement, “were neither part of, nor signatories to the Agreed Position.”

The Committee labeled this move as reflective of a “lack of maturity” in leadership.

The Working Committee reiterated that it does not interfere in “internal impeachment processes of leaders in their respective parties or groups.” Highlighting a precedent, the statement recalled that “Mr. Isak Sumi, Ato Kilonser of NSCN-K, successfully navigated impeachment challenges from his party members on two separate occasions” and was allowed to continue participating in the Committee’s proceedings. “This same standard of support is applied to Mr. N. Kitovi Zhimomi as well,” it stated.

Addressing the broader political landscape, the Working Committee acknowledged the “contributions of the visionary leaders” who helped establish the NNPGs and noted that the signing of the Agreed Position with the Government of India marked the completion of its objectives. It firmly stated that “there are no further negotiations to be undertaken at this time with the GOI.”

The Committee also took issue with recent appointments within the newly formed Working Committee, specifically naming MB Neokpao Konyak as Convener for a three-year term. The decision was described as “driven by vested interests” and an attempt to “prolong the solution process,” despite the “urgent desire of the Naga people for a timely solution.”

The Working Committee cautioned against “exploiting the positive reputation of the NNPGs/Working Committee for personal gain” and reaffirmed its stance on preserving the integrity of the Agreed Position.

The ‘Agreed Position’ signed between the Government of India and the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) Working Committee (WC) on November 17, 2017, is reproduced below for public and general reference, issued by Media Cell, Working Committee, NNPGs. 

MT