Thank God and thank you all for selecting me as Vice Chairman of NSCN six years ago and for your wholehearted support and cooperation during my tenure. In spite of my efforts, there were some hurdles in and out because of which I could not perform up to expectation. Nevertheless, I will not shy away from my bounden duties in days to come. Thank you once again for reaffirming me in the same position for another tenure. My earnest request to you all is to extend the same trend of support and cooperation even during the new tenure.
Another humble request I would like to make to all authorities who hold executive powers is that: there should be no discrimination and discrepancies in any form in any department. All activities should be carried out judiciously. Partiality and financial mismanagement must be totally avoided. The national principle must be upheld by one and all. When we say, “Naga political issue”, we must look at it and understand it from the preview of Naga nationhood which encompasses the Naga political movement from the beginning, comprising of all Nagas and their land. It is natural to have different regions, ranges, and areas; but they are the components of one nation, the Naga nation. Let there be UNC, NTC, CNTC, TCL ENPO, etc. These units are but the strength of our Nation. Any element that could weaken our nationhood should be discouraged.
Coming to Indo-Naga political negotiation: Our leaders Chairman Late Isak Chishi Swu and General Secretary Th.Muivah had achieved milestones and laid down a strong foundation for us and new generation Nagas. It had not come easily but through blood, tears, and decades of fighting and tireless talking. By the grace of God our two leaders had received wisdom from above in dealing and negotiating with the Government of India and their representatives. The most words of wisdom were when they responded to the Indian leaders, “If the Government of India respect the history of the Nagas then Nagas will respect the history of India even ten times more”. Beginning from that day the path for negotiation was opened wide. Taking a long time and much effort our leaders could make our history loud and clear to the Indian authorities. The uniqueness of Naga history has been openly recognized on two occasions, i.e 2002 and 2015. Basing on this recognized unique history of the Nagas we are talking to retain Naga’s right to self-determination which is in accordance with UN Charter Art 1(2).
Patience, consistency, and perseverance are the need of the day. Self-important and selfishness must be done away with. Many comrades had given their lives for the dearest cause. It is yours and mine today. Let us not look left and right, but forward always. We shall overcome someday. Thank you all once again.
Kuknalim
Tongmeth Wangnao