The Naga People’s Front (NPF) has expressed deep concern over a reported gunfight between two Naga armed groups in Naga areas of Myanmar in the early hours of January 9, which resulted in deaths and injuries among Naga youths.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, the NPF said the incident was “absolutely discouraging” and came at a time when the Naga people had entered the New Year 2026 “with full of hope and expectations.” The NPF stated that fighting among Naga brothers sends a wrong message and undermines collective efforts towards peace and unity.
The NPF also voiced apprehension that such fratricidal violence could adversely affect the forthcoming Naga Yoya New Year celebration scheduled to be held on January 15 at Layshi Township in the Naga Self-Administered Zone of Myanmar.
“The Naga Yoya New Year festival, an annual event, is being hosted this year by Layshi Town, and we fear that continued fighting may disrupt the festivities,” the party said.
Urging restraint, the NPF appealed to all Naga political groups to engage in dialogue and refrain from violence. “Fighting within the family will not yield positive results but will only cause further damage,” the NPF said, adding that peace, unity, and reconciliation are essential and that the fighting must stop.
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Reaffirming its commitment to a permanent, honorable, and inclusive solution to the Naga political issue, the NPF extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished the injured a speedy recovery. The party also called upon all Naga groups to uphold mutual respect and work together in the service of the people.
The statement was issued by the Press Bureau of the Naga People’s Front, Central Headquarters, Kohima.
