The Mao Council has rejected the Tenyimi Peoples’ Organisation (TPO) judgment on the land (forest) dispute at Koziirii/Kezoltsa/Kazing. The Mao Council expressed strong dissatisfaction with the judgment passed by the TPO on July 12, stating that it did not adhere to the fundamental principles of Tenyimi customary laws and traditional practices.
The Council noted that the TPO was bound by the Arbitration Undertaking dated January 28, 2017, which stipulates “Naga Customary Laws and usages (Tenyimi)” as the basis for reviewing the case.
Despite the clear and declared position and prior option for ‘Oath Taking’ by the two contestants, the Mao Council and the Southern Angami Public Organization (SAPO), the July 12 judgment willfully disregarded this vital aspect, raising serious questions. The Council also criticized Order Number 11 of the July 12 verdict, which stated that the judgment would be final and binding on all parties. The Mao Council argued that this is not consistent with Tenyimi traditional practices, particularly when solemn oath-taking and traditional celebrations of settlement are ignored.
Additionally, the Council pointed out that Order Number 10 in the verdict describes the judgment as based on the customs and traditions of the Tenyimi people. However, settling disputes according to tradition and customs typically involves oath-taking when parties are dissatisfied with elders’ proposals for resolution. The Mao Council further emphasized their desire for Koziirii and Dziiko to remain whole and intact, to be cared for by the rightful caretaker, rather than being dismembered into different parts.