Return of Akato-led group into WC-NNPG’s fold ‘untrue’

Dimapur, Dec. 18 (EMN): The Working Committee, Naga National Political Group (WC-NNPG) on Sunday refuted the Akato Chophi-led NSCN/GPRN’s claim of re-entry into its fold, stating that the statement of the merger was “premature and untrue”.

‘Akato Chophi’s exit was his own making and his re-entry into WC will require absolute unanimity among WC leaders, which has not happened. Although he has expressed unconditional support to Agreed Position and status papers of WC-NNPG, seeking acceptance into the fold, the decision has not been taken. WC entities will decide,’ read the statement.

WC-NNPG clarified that until recently, Akato Chophi was the vice president of NSCN (Reformation).

‘There was a small domestic issue within NSCN (R) which was amicably resolved in a sitting with his President, Inno Y Wangtin Naga and  General Secretary Inno PTikhak, ably assisted by WC convenor and co-convenors.

‘However, before the ink dried on the document, Akato Chophi, on his own volition, declared his departure from NSCN(R) on November 19, issuing negative press statements against WC-NNPG,’ it read.

It further stated that WC-NNPG is an open platform for all Naga political groups “yet certain political decorum and ethical conduct as individuals and leaders are necessary to ensure WC is strengthened and not weakened”.

‘The existence of WC-NNPG is based solely on equality and transparency on all matters.  The issues of moral integrity, ethical values, political vision, and commitment to common cause are the forging ingredients in the WC.

‘As it is, the Agreed Position and the status papers are official properties of both the Naga people and the GoI. None should defile it. In consonance with WC-NNPG’s standing principle, every decision of WC will be a collective affair through sincere and pragmatic approach, that which will strengthen the core values and build greater trust among the WC leaders,’ it added.