Leaders, organisations condole demise of former minister

DIMAPUR — Public leaders from various political parties and organisations have expressed their condolences on the passing of former minister N Zhetovi Sema.

Sharingain Longkumer: Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) Speaker Sharingain Longkumer, in his condolence message, noted that Zhetovi was elected as a member of the NLA from the Seyochung-Sitimi Assembly Constituency in 1969 and again in 1975. He also served as Minister of Animal Husbandry.

Describing him as a visionary Naga leader who dedicated his life to the welfare of the Eastern Sumis and the broader Naga community, Longkumer said that Zhetovi had made a significant mark in public life.

“His tireless efforts and remarkable contributions have left an indelible mark, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate generations to come,” read the message.

S Supongmeren Jamir: Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir, in his condolence message, stated that Zhetovi’s untold sacrifices in the service of the people would be difficult to emulate and would be cherished for ages by his constituents and the people of Nagaland in general.

H Tovihoto Ayemi: Advisor for the Department of Tribal Affairs and Election, H Tovihoto Ayemi, stated in his condolence message that Zhetovi was a dedicated and passionate leader who committed his life to the welfare of the people.

According to him, he left for Eastern Nagaland and the Nagas in general with an indelible mark that will be remembered for a long time with great admiration.

C Kipili Sangtam: MLA and chairman of DPDB Kiphire, C Kipili Sangtam, expressed his shock and sadness at the news of the former minister’s demise.

He said that Kiphire district has lost a renowned and highly regarded leader with a dynamic personality, and that his ideology of inclusive development will always be remembered.

Sümi Hoho: The Sümi Hoho, in a statement, said that it is deeply saddened by the demise of the former minister.

It said that he was also the founder president of Eastern Sümi Hoho and contributed significantly to various organisations in numerous capacities.

“The Sümi people regard him as a visionary leader and one of the pioneers of modern Nagaland. His passing is a tremendous loss to the Sümis in particular and the Nagas in general,” it said.

Western Sumi Hoho: The Western Sumi Hoho, mourning the demise of Zhetovi, described him as a legendary leader and a towering figure in Nagaland’s history.

It said that his demise is a profound loss to the entire Sumi community and the state as a whole.

“Zhetovi Sema will be deeply missed, but his contributions to our community and state will never be forgotten,” it said.

Ex-PAN: The Ex-Parliamentarians Association of Nagaland (Ex-PAN), expressing sadness over the demise of Zhetovi, said that he was a bona fide member of the Ex-PAN until his passing.

It said that losing a senior member of the association leaves a significant vacuum, as age and experience guide the Ex-PAN and its members.

Stating that he was a pioneer not just for the Eastern Sumis and ENPO brethren but also for the Nagas in general as a member of the erstwhile Tuensang Regional Council, it said that, as a minister in the Government of Nagaland, he had also endeavoured to establish the departments for which he was responsible.

NFHRCC: The Nagaland Foothill Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC) also expressed deep sadness at the demise of the former minister and father of Inahoto Sema, executive engineer, PWD (Road and Bridges), Dimapur Division.

In a press release, it said that he was a prominent leader in his time from Kiphire district and expressed deepest condolences to the bereaved family at this time of great grief, praying that the departed soul may rest in eternal peace.