Former NLA deputy speaker Rokonicha no more

Eastern Mirror Desk Dimapur, April 17: Former Nagaland Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker Rokonicha Kuotsu passed away after a prolonged illness at his residence in Medziphema on Wednesday, April 17. He was 73. Kuotsu is survived by his wife Soneiü, three daughters and three sons. The former minister did his schooling at Piphema GMS and Government High School in Kohima, and graduated from St. Edmund's College, Shillong in 1970. He was awarded Merit Certificate by Kohima District Students' Conference as one of the top ten students in 1961. He served as an assistant teacher at Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School, Kohima for three years and led several civil society organisations, including as the president of Chakhroma Students' Union, joint secretary and chairman of Angami Public Organisation, and president of Chakhroma Public Organisation. Kuotsu was first elected to the NLA in 1974 and went on to win five more terms during his illustrious career in politics. He contested from 5-Ghaspani II assembly constituency in 1974 with UDF ticket and subsequently became the Deputy Speaker in 1975. He went on to win the state assembly elections in 1977 (UDF), 1982 (NNDP), 1987 (NNDP), 1998 (INC), and 2003 (INC). Condolence messages Governor of Nagaland PB Acharya, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, and Leader of Opposition TR Zeliang have mourned the demise of former minister. Acharya stated in his condolence message that in the demise of Rokonicha, “the people of Nagaland have lost a tall leader and a great human being who will be remembered fondly by all.” “He as a social leader served the people of Nagaland in various capacities and was the Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly in 1974 and Minister of State for Local Self Government & Wastelands, Government of Nagaland in 1998,” the governor added. He also “conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family and prayed to Almighty God to grant strength and solace to bear the irreparable loss.” From Neiphiu Rio The Chief Minister said in a statement that he was deeply shocked and pained to learn of the demise of former minister Rokonicha on Wednesday. “I had the privilege of working with late Rokonicha in the Government. Besides being a colleague, he was an elder brother to me. His gentle demeanour, good nature, simplicity and humility were his greatest attributes. He was one of the longest serving leaders from the Angami community in Dimapur area; who served the people throughout his life and made many contributions towards the uplift of society, particularly the down-trodden sections. In his demise, we have lost a kind soul, an amiable person and a veteran leader whose absence will be deeply felt,” read the statement from CM. “My wife and family join me in conveying our deepest condolences to all the loved ones of the bereaved family. We pray that you will find comfort in God’s Word as you deal with this great loss. May the departed soul rest in eternal peace,” it added. From TR Zeliang The Leader of Opposition expressed sadness on the demise of Rokonicha Kuotsu. He said that the service of the deceased to the community in various capacities is commendable. “His election to the Nagaland Legislative assembly for a total of six terms is a testimony to his illustrious political career and leadership quality. A veteran and a well-known name in the political circle of the State, Lt. Rokonicha Kuotsu has been an inspiration and a treasured guide to fellow politicians and a respectable man in the society,” read the statement from the former CM. “His untimely demise today is a great loss to the Naga people. I along with my family members extend our heartfelt condolences and pray to Almighty God to grant solace to the members of the bereaved family. May the departed soul Rest in Peace,” it added.