As NSCN-K (YA) splits, Global Naga Forum appeal for ceasefire and peace

Mokokchung, 9 June (MTNews): In a recent development, the Naga Army divisions under the NSCN (K) in Myanmar have unanimously announced their refusal to work under the leadership of Yung Aung, effective from 6 June 2023. The divisions involved include GHQ Brigade (II) in the Tangshang area, Brigade (III) in the Konyak Region, and divisions in Wancho and Leinong regions.

According to a press release by “Maj. Gen.” Langnyei Konyak, a senior figure in the Naga Army, they have also declared their commitment to defending their land against any encroachments by external forces. The statement alleged that Yung Aung changed the NSCN/GPRN logo and adopted a new logo and nomenclature following his succession. In response, the Naga Army divisions have decided to revert to using the original logo and stamp adopted in 1980, intending to honor the principles and values of the late Baba SS Khaplang.

Accusing Yung Aung of ignoring the pleas of the people and civil society organizations (CSOs) for an extended period, “Maj. Gen.” Langnyei revealed that on 25 March 2023, the Naga Army had issued a directive for all brigades and units to report to the GHQ for a meeting on 5 April 5 2023. However, NSCN (K) led by President Yung Aung allegedly conspired against the meeting, labeling it as a revolt against his rule.

The meeting, as explained by “Maj. Gen.” Langnyei, was intended to discuss the welfare and progress of the Naga Army and the people. Despite proceeding as scheduled, it did not sit well with Yung Aung. Subsequently, Langnyei claimed that Yung Aung began launching attacks on the GHQ from 3 April 2023, declaring a “war against all the nation workers” who participated in the meeting.

Interventions were made by regional leaders and CSOs such as Naga YUYA (Naga Culture Committee Myanmar), Naga Baptist Convention (NBC), Naga Students’ Organization (NSO), Eastern Naga Students’ Association (ENSA), and Konyak Union Myanmar (KUM) in an attempt to restore peace. These CSOs also urged both the GHQ and Council Headquarters (CHQ) to respect the Tigak River as the boundary until the issue could be resolved.

However, while efforts were being made to resolve the issue and establish peace, Langnyei stated that Yung Aung’s forces continued to disregard the boundary line set by the CSOs. This led to a clash between the two parties on 5 June 2023.

Langnyei further disclosed that Yung Aung’s armies crossed the Tigak River and launched a full-force attack on the Naga Army’s defense line. The Naga Army responded defensively, and by the grace of God, there were no reported casualties on their side. The casualty count from the opposing side is yet to be confirmed.

Global Naga Forum appeals

In light of the recent infighting within the Yung Aung-led NSCN (K), the Global Naga Forum (GNF) has expressed deep concern and issued a public appeal to the leadership of GHQ and CHQ to halt the ongoing violence.

Stating that news of the deadly infighting within the Yung Aung led NSCN (K) cadres is extremely disheartening for Nagas everywhere, the GNF acknowledged the seriousness of the clash and that they are not in a position to dismiss the reason for the internal clash.

However, as fellow Nagas and members of a global Naga civil society who care deeply about the security and welfare of all Naga people – in India and Myanmar, as well as overseas, the GNF urged the leadership of GHQ and CHQ leadership to consider the common mission that brought them together in the first place.

“Naga people are grateful for your dedication to the Naga cause for justice and human rights, but killing one another undermines and completely defeats the cause,” the forum said.

Highlighting the hardships faced by Nagas in Myanmar, including total economic stagnation, absence of infrastructure, lack of basic medical facilities, resulting in extreme poverty, infant mortality, food insecurity, and oppression from the military junta, the Global Naga Forum emphasized that Nagas in Myanmar need all the help they can get.

“At the very least, both NPGs and CSOs need to make sure we don’t add to their sufferings,” it stated.

The Global Naga Forum appreciated the efforts made by Eastern Naga civil society organizations, namely Konyak Union Mon, Naga Students’ Organization, Eastern Nagaland Students’ Association, and the Naga Yuya, in their attempts to prevent the escalation of the conflict. The GNF joined those organizations in appealing to the NSCN (YA) to cease the violence and work towards peace, for the sake of the Nagas in Myanmar and the greater good of the Naga people as a whole.