WAYO reaffirms demand against bail for accused in PA killing case

The Western Angami Youth Organisation (WAYO) has reiterated its demand that no bail should be granted to the two accused in the alleged killing of Kezhalelie Lawrence Miasalhou, Political Assistant to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Kohima on May 18 last year. The demand was conveyed through a letter to the Deputy Commissioner via the Sub-Divisional Officer, Sechü-Zubza.

WAYO expressed deep concern over reports that one of the accused has already been released on bail, while the other has also applied for bail. The organization pointed out that CCTV footage of the incident, which took place in broad daylight on May 18, 2024, in Kohima, has gone viral, making the public sentiment highly charged.  ”It is not even one year and emotions are still high,” WAYO stated.

In its letter, WAYO reaffirmed its memorandum submitted on May 20, 2024, particularly Point No. 3, which states, “That no bail should be given to them under any circumstances. WAYO also warns that if any person or group tries to bail them out, they will be held responsible for any untoward consequences.”

The organization further highlighted concerns regarding the slow pace of the legal process, revealing that only two of the 39 listed prosecution witnesses have been examined so far. Moreover, court documents suggest that the released accused was allegedly involved only in “instigating the confrontation.” This, WAYO argues, has raised serious questions among the public.

Given the volatile situation, the organization has urged the authorities to take proactive measures to maintain peace, cautioning that freeing the accused at this stage could lead to disturbances and law-and-order issues.

MT