GPRN/NSCN denies coercion claims, says president left for medical treatment

The GPRN/NSCN, led by Ato Kilonser N Kitovi Zhimomi, has issued a press release addressing concerns surrounding the sudden departure of its President, Gen. (Retd) MB Neokpao Konyak, for medical treatment. The group dismissed media reports suggesting coercion, asserting that he was provided full security and support during his travel.

According to the statement, Konyak had reported experiencing health issues that required immediate medical attention. “To ensure his safe and timely access to necessary healthcare, the GPRN/NSCN formally requested support from prominent local civil societies, specifically the Western Sumi Hoho and the Western Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO),” the release stated.

These organizations were tasked with facilitating his transportation to the hospital and ensuring his return to the designated camp.

However, the GPRN/NSCN noted that instead of returning as expected, Konyak “proceeded directly to Samson’s private residence located at Thahekhu Village, diverging from the expected protocol of returning post-treatment.” This development, the group said, has “raised questions and concerns among members of the GPRN/NSCN and the involved civil societies.”

Refuting allegations that Konyak had been placed under duress, the statement emphasized, “The allegation in the press and media that we have kept him under coercion is baseless since he was never kept under duress. As the President, we respect him, and with all proper government protocol, we had sent him with all his personal security guards with one section of arms in order to escort him and ensure his safety from any eventuality.” The statement added that this arrangement was “witnessed by Western Sumi Hoho and Western Chakhesang Public Organization.”

Addressing speculation about Konyak’s status, the group maintained, “We still take and regard Gen. (Retd) MB Neokpao Konyak as our President. However, we are yet to ascertain whether he is staying with his own consent or if he is being held captive at the private residence with outrageous exaltation and incentives.” It added that tribal leaders from Western Sumi Hoho and Chakhesang Public Organization, as well as GPRN officials, “await his return after medical treatment.”

Dismissing what it called “fabrications” in the press, the GPRN/NSCN stated, “The press statements and live media reports that have been circulating in the public domain are not credible—they are fabrications without a shred of truth.”

It further noted, “Had there been any genuine hostility towards the President, we would have taken all the arms belonging to the GPRN/NSCN (NK) government back without hesitation. Instead, we chose to allow him to retain them while wishing him a speedy recovery as he seeks treatment.”

The statement concluded with a note of goodwill, saying, “We wish him a speedy recovery and return home soon.”

MT