Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 27
A public funeral for late H Khekiho Zhimomi, the Rajya Sabha member from Nagaland who passed away on Thursday last, was held here today at Agri Expo site (4th Mile), Dimapur. An assembly of the good and the great of Nagaland, including Chief Minister TR Zeliang and Lok Sabha MP Neiphiu Rio, gathered with thousand others to pay their final respect.
Messages were shared by representatives from Sheyipu village, Sumi Hoho, Sumi Kukami Hoho, Western Sumi Hoho, Western Sumi Kukami Hoho, Sumi Officers’ Union, Sumi Legislators, Chekiye Village and other organizations. The service was led by the Reverend Dr Shiwoto Assumi.
Chief Minister TR Zeliang described Zhimomi as an upright and straightforward leader who never sought to suppress the truth, no matter how harmful or hurtful. He recalled that they had entered state politics in the same year, 1989, which destined them to cross paths all through their political careers.
Zeliang also eulogized Zhimomi as a “staunch regionalist” who had dedicated his whole life to the cause of Naga political struggle – in his capacity as a political leader. He shared that Zhimomi had visited him “in the middle of this month” to discuss the possibility of reconciliation among the warring NPF members. “Unfortunately, it was the last time that I saw him alive,” Zeliang rued.
Lok Sabha member, Neiphiu Rio, while recalling Zhimomi as a colleague and a brother, said that the latter’s entrepreneurial skills within the context of insurgency infested Nagaland was worth emulating. “And his courage to speak the truth – we can all try emulate these qualities.”
He pointed out that no Naga leader has been accorded with such honor on his/her death like the one that has been bestowed on Zhimomi. “The Vice President himself was there last night. And the Minsiter for Parliamentary Affairs, Venkaiah Naidu along with Jitender and Rijiju (Ministers of State) were there. This is the highest honor that could be bestowed and it gives me courage,” Rio shared.
He also disclosed that Zhimomi was initially diagnosed with “mild heart attack” by doctors in Dimapur. However when he was taken to Delhi, the doctors there told the family that Zhimomi had only 50% chances of survival.
The president of NPF, Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu could not attend the funeral function. His message, however, was read out in absentia.
Also, speaking on behalf of the Sumi Officers’ Union, Y Kikheto described Zhimomi as a tall leader among the Sumis and Nagas, who was always willing to work for the people. He read out a eulogy lauding Zhimomi’s good accomplishments and good deeds.
Other speakers include, G Kaito Aye, Y Vikheho Swu, Noke Wangnao, Thenucho Tunyi, K Hollohon, Tokheho Yepthomi, Zhimomi’s children and wife. After the service, the mortal remains were taken to Ikishe village for burial.
