Mokokchung, Nov. 7 (EMN): Lotha Hoho Mokokchung (MLH) celebrated its fifty years of its existence with Imkong L Imchen, minister of Health and Family Welfare and Elections, as the chief guest and Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe, Secretary to the Government of Nagaland (Retired) as the guest of honour at town hall on the theme “Nurturing fate”( Sukhyang Nkhungcho).
In his speech, Imkong elucidated that not only Lothas and Aos share similar cultural identity but all also traditional and customary traits and behaviours. He also thanked the Lotha residents of Mokokchung for their immense contributions to the formation of Mokokchung as one of the headquarters of Naga Hills district and to the formation of Mokokchung as a vibrant town in the present day.
Speaking about the prominence of Lotha tribe and their contribution to Naga society, he said that personally he found the Lothas as the most articulated amongst the Nagas.
He said the theme of the jubilee celebration was very appropriate at the present age because as Nagas, everyone wants to co- exist nurture dreams and destiny together for a prosperous and harmonious Nagaland ahead. He also said that Nagas ought to focus on the past in order to nurture our fate towards a brighter future as Nagas.
Imkong also said that every Naga irrespective of age should lay stress on contributing their part to bring a cohesive and permanent settlement at the earliest to the Naga political problem as the cycle of elections will come and go every five years but Naga political struggle will persist and will go on without a viable solution.
Er. Thongbemo Yanthan, Advisor MLH, invoked Gods’ blessings and Nyamo Z Lotha, Chairman MLH, delivered the welcome address. Former advisor MLH, Elias T Lotha shared his experience and past memories of the journey of MLH as a union and the vote of thanks was delivered by Phyoben Odyuo, convenor of core committee. The program culminated with a benediction said W Khonimo Odyuo, pastor of LBC Mokokchung.
Many special songs, acts and cultural displays were also performed by CTC students, Lotha community Mokokchung, Nagaland University students, Tsungiki village council, Longsalong cultural club and struggler boys.
The jubilee feast was followed by an entertainment session which was chaired by Renchino Odyuo, cultural secretary MLH, and Areni Yanthan.
