KGOU, Naga politicians remember Noke Wangnao’s legacy and leadership

DIMAPUR — The demise of veteran Naga leader Noke Wangnao has elicited condolences from across the political spectrum. Wangnao, who was serving as advisor to the department of Social Welfare, passed away on Monday, August 28.

KGOU: The Konyak Gazetted Officers’ Union (KGOU) has condoled the sudden demise of Noke Wangnao on Monday at CIHSR, Chümoukedima.

The KGOU said in a condolence message that late Wangnao was one of the staunchest regionalist, Naga political leaders— a man of principle who believed in upholding what was best for Naga society.

“He was a leader who fearlessly spoke his mind, and followed what he spoke with resolute action, and that earned him the unwavering love and trust from his people,” it read.

The union noted that during his five-decade political career, he was well known and sought for his unambiguous wise counsel and his farsighted, straightforward, and honest statements ‘that often belittled bigoted fuss and confusion’. It added that he was an accomplished and towering political figure in Nagaland state politics.

“He outlasted the period of political turmoil and remained undeterred to provide strong and reliable leadership to the people of his constituency, his community, and the Naga Society in general,” the union said, and described his death as an indescribable loss for the society.

Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu: Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, MLA and leader of the NPF Legislature Party, described it as tragic that one of the most senior parliamentarians, who was still doing his best to serve the people, had left for his heavenly abode.

He stated that it was an honour for him to have worked with late Wangnao on various occasions and that he regarded him as a very honest politician who was dedicated to his people and the Nagas as a whole.

“He has served as the people’s representative in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for the past 50 years, and under his leadership, numerous reforms and advancements were made,” said Azo in a message, and he extended condolences to Wangnao’s family on his own behalf and on behalf of the NPF party.

H Tovihoto Ayemi: In his condolence message, MLA and advisor, department of Tribal Affairs, and Election, H Tovihoto Ayemi stated that late Noke Wangnao, popularly known as Baba Noke, was loved by his colleagues for his distinct personality, straightforwardness, and simplicity.

Ayemi stated that the legacy he has left behind will inspire Naga society for a long time to come, and that the Nagaland Legislative Assembly and the Naga people as a whole have lost a veteran and seasoned politician.

“In this hour of sadness, I express my deepest condolences to his grieving family members and the people of his constituency. I pray the Almighty God to rest his soul in eternal peace and give strength to the members of the bereaved family,” he said.

Wanglem Konyak: The NPF candidate from 43 A/C Tapi, Mon, Wanglem Konyak, in his condolence message, described late Wangnao as a tall figure not just amongst the Konyak community but also among the Nagas.

He said that Wangnao joined politics when the Nagaland state was still in its infancy and has been instrumental in many vital reforms both in Konyak areas as well as in Nagaland.

“In his demise, we have not only lost a leader but also an encyclopaedia of Naga politics,” he said, adding that he was a man of truth and integrity and dedicated his whole life to the service of the people.

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