Nagaland: Former Angami Students’ Union president laid to rest

Dimapur, Nov. 1 (EMN): Former president of the Angami Students’ Union (ASU), Zakieseto Zacharias Khate and popularly known as Zakie Khate, who passed away on October 31 at Bethel Hospital in Kohina following a prolonged illness, was laid to rest in his native village, Khonoma, on November 1.

He has served the community in various capacities as vice president of Naga Students’ Union Shillong (2005-06), assistant general secretary of Angami Students’ Union (2007-09), president of Angami Students’ Union (2013-15), joint secretary of Angami Youth Organisation (2016-19), joint secretary cum secretary of Khriekesa Pelikro (2020-till date), and joint secretary of Merhüma Youth Organisation (2022-till date).

Short speeches were delivered by representatives of AYO, ASU senior leaders, ASU, All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur, and other individuals at the funeral.

Alemtemshi Jamir, NDPP working president, shared that his ‘practical sense of approach of life’ and maturity was very impressive, while the advisor of Technical Education and Election, Medo Yhokha, has also conveyed condolence message.

NSF: Naga Students’ Federation, in a condolence message, stated that he would be remembered as a sincere and dedicated leader by the Naga people.

AYO: Angami Youth Organisation (AYO), in a condolence message, has described Khate as a large-hearted person, extraordinary and a unique personality among his peers.

“In his demise, the Angamis and the Nagas have lost a tall, dynamic and an exemplary youth leader who rendered his best for the society during his life on earth, “AYO stated.

ASU: Angami Students’ Union (ASU) said late Khate continuously rendered invaluable and immeasurable service towards the students and the youth of Angami community and the Nagas at large.

“His exemplary leadership in shouldering the responsibilities thrust upon him will always be cherished. The emptiness created by his absence in the midst of our Angami students’ fraternity will be felt forever,” ASU stated.

CYF: Chakhesang Youth Front (CYF) said in Khate’s demise, the Naga youth have lost a patriotic brother who has much to offer to the Naga people in leading the young minds to pride in our Naga identity and to protect it.

MSU: Mao Students’ Union (MSU) termed Khate’s demise as a monumental loss not only to the Angami Students’ Union but to the entire Naga students.

“He was a humble and a compassionate student leader who lived an exemplary life and made his mark indelibly as someone who connects with the student leader’s fraternity beyond borders and irrespective of tribes,” MSU stated.

Other organisations including the Rengma Students’ Union (RSU), Western Angami Students’ Union (WASU), Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO), Western Angami Youth Organisation (WAYO), Chakhroma Students’ Union (CSU), Western Angami Public Organisation (WAPO), Wildlife Warden Dimapur, Angami youth, and the Chief Minister’s Office have also conveyed condolences.