CHIZAMI RANGE HAS VITAL ROLE IN NAGA UNITY, DEVELOPMENT: KG KENYE

KOHIMA, October 24 (NEPS): Nagaland Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs, KG Kenye, today said the Chizami Range had played a significant role in the history, identity and future development of the Nagas and called upon its people to strengthen unity and collective leadership.

Speaking as the Special Guest at the 5th Triennial General Session of the Chizami Range Public Organisation, Kohima (CRPOK), held at the Heritage Bamboo Hall, Kisama, Kenye said the range, comprising five villages, had been the source of several important historical and social developments. He noted that it had served as a catalyst in the formation of the Kuzha community, which preceded the emergence of the Chakhesang tribe, and that the tribe derived its name from the Chizami Range in 1946.

Highlighting the region’s historical importance, the Minister said the Chizami Range had witnessed events connected with the Second World War. He said British Allied forces had established camps and inspection bungalows in the area, while Japanese forces had advanced from Imphal through Jessami towards Chizami and Pfutsero, passing through the range. He also referred to Colonel Brown’s retreat from Jessami to Kohima, stating that he had walked for 39 hours through the range.

Kenye said the area’s historical significance and scenic beauty made it a potential tourism hotspot. He further observed that the Avangkhu trade centre could emerge as an important trade route, particularly in view of the prevailing situation in Manipur, and facilitate transit connectivity with Southeast Asian countries.

The Minister said the Chizami Range had produced many pioneers and leaders, including civil servants, doctors, engineers and Christian leaders. Referring to Reverend V. K. Nuh’s contributions to the Nagaland Baptist Church Council, he said the people of the range should take pride in their achievements and not feel inferior.

Urging the organisation to grow in stature and influence, Kenye said the people must come together more often, promote mutual understanding, and provide political and social direction to the Nagas. He expressed hope that the Chizami Range Public Organisation would continue to contribute meaningfully to society and the region.

Earlier, former CRPOK President Liengute Doulo delivered an exhortation, while CRPOK President Kekhwewe Sekhamo delivered the presidential address. Vice President of the CRPOK, Kezuwe Tsuhah, was leader of the program.

On the occasion, the new team of CRPOK for the 2026–2029 tenure was declared and installed.

The new office-bearers of CRPOK for the 2026–2029 tenure are Kewetso Kenye, President; Kezüwe Tsuhah, Vice President; Kevetshelo Venuh, General Secretary; Neitshope Sekhamo, Assistant General Secretary; Chete Lohe, Finance Secretary; Wetulo Thopi, Social and Cultural Secretary; Akrolho Wozah, Treasurer; Neipezou Mero and Khronelu Thele, Women Coordinators; and Kekhwewe Sekhamo, Weneipe Khalo, Mesetsozü Wezah and Meselhinyi Lasuh, Advisors. A large number of members of the Chizami Range Public Organisation, Kohima, and government officials also attended the session.