“In unity there is victory,” Hekani Jakhalu, Advisor, Industry and Commerce, Government of Nagaland, tweeted after attending Sumi Hoho’s felicitation program for newly elected legislators from the Sumi community at Zunheboto Town Hall on Friday.
Advisor, Department of Tribal Affairs, and Election, Government of Nagaland, H Tovihoto Ayemi expressed his gratitude to the Sumi apex body for bringing them together while Minister, PHED and Cooperation, Jacob Zhimomi called it a “privilege” to be a part of the program.
As a result of this display of unity, one netizen wrote, “All our Honourable Sumi Legislators in one platform. What a sight.”
Zunheboto has seven legislators from the district and along with them, there are three more legislators from the Sumi community in the present Nagaland Legislative Assembly elected from Dimapur, Chumoukedima and Niuland districts. Eight of the legislators were present in the felicitation program organized by Sumi Hoho.
According to a report in Nagaland Tribune, MLA Jacob Zhimomi lauded the seven legislators for their efforts and for improving the National Highway and stated that if all the legislators are united, they can continue to work for the betterment of their Headquarter.
Zhimomi also reportedly stated that the Government of India is working on the tourism sector and that “if lands are donated, then the provisions for a three-star hotel are ready,” in addition to the “beautification” of Sumi Baptist Church Zunheboto.
The minister also stated that the Central Government in Delhi is striving to improve aviation connection in the region, and that he has already spoken with the BJP government about establishing an air strip for mini planes in Zunheboto District.
During his speech, G Kaito Aye, Minister for Roads and Bridges, reportedly encouraged the Sumis to abandon “destructive criticism” and “help them work for the people.”
He also advised the people to “not command the leaders, but to address them politely,” and as a result, the legislators will do their best to resolve the situation. He said that there is a system for everything and that specific protocols must be followed, and that just because one is a legislator does not give him authority over the department. This was reported by Nagaland Tribune.
The Minister also asked the Sumis to be patient, adding that the current MLAs are young and vibrant, with extensive practical experience in bringing about overall development. Aye also recommended students not to rely solely on political leaders for their future but to instead focus on education and prepare for competitive exams.
Sumi Hoho President Nikheto Zhimomi congratulated all the winning candidates and encouraged them to be united at all times. He also urged legislators to construct a B. Ed centre in Zunheboto for the students’ community, as well as to upgrade the Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Zunheboto.
While delivering the greetings, Kashito Yepthomi, President of Sumi Kukami Hoho, urged the Sumis to reject nepotism and favoritism, and to stand up for one another in times of need, as well as to speak to leaders to help the persons in need. He described Sumi legislators as the Sumi tribe’s “armour” and urged them to work for the community’s progress.