Negotiate in humility, NBCC appeals leaders

Dimapur, Jan. 18: The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) has expressed concern over the turn of events “from behind our embattled positions” in relation to the conduct of elections to urban local bodies in Nagaland. In a press release issued on Wednesday, the NBCC stated: “In deep anguish and distress, NBCC appeals to leaders of conviction to those who are where they are because they believe they have a responsibility in their positions. We appeal to honourable leaders who do not desire to remain on the sands of misunderstanding, nor feed on the fears of the misinformed. “We believe those in positions of leadership in the state political arena and the ‘tribal’ folds have a particular responsibility to resolve conflict for the common good of our people. In such a time as this, when our people are going through divisive moment, NBCC appeals to our leaders to exercise God given wisdom.” The NBCC stated that lack of trust and confidence in the system in general and lack of political vision for the people in particular has spiralled to an uncontrollable degree of anger and frustration. This we must address so that the treatment is not just a mere symptomatic treatment but holistic in nature and in approach, it stated. “We further appeal to our leaders to come together in humility to the negotiating table to resolve the differences that exist without becoming stubborn and vindictive. In every power struggle it is the common people that are sandwiched. If the present conflict is not resolved and contained, our society will further fragment and we will all be the loser. “Therefore, the NBCC in the name of Christ call upon the concerned leaders to strive and find an amicable solution to the present impasse. As Christians, we dare not encourage what is wrong or entertain what is contrary to the purposes of Christ”.