KNO rubbishes ZDV factions merger claim
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 01 2013:
Reacting to the statement of Zou Defence Volunteers (ZDV) statement that both factions of ZDV under KNO and UPF have merged as one under the UPF, the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) said that the ZDV was a part of the KNO and continues to remain a core member of the umbrella organisation.
It was unfortunate that Anthony, after consenting to be a senior advisor to SDV should leave for the UPF, which creates division among the Zou community, a statement issued by under secretary, Information and Publicity, KNO Stephen said.
TCK Anthony (Pakap), a senior leader of ZDV was previously the C-in-C.However, Dino Zou became the C-in-C of ZDV, and owing to his age, Anthony became a senior advisor.
Dino Zou is also the Convenor of the KNO Joint Monitoring Group.
He was also a signatory of the Sixth SoO extension held at New Delhi on August 30, 2013, the KNO statement said.
Pointing out that the approved cadre number of ZDV in 2008, when SoO was first signed was forty-five, the KNO statement said that currently, thirty nine cadres are with Dino Zou; the remaining 6, including the five, who recently joined the United People's Front are with Anthony.
In the interest of strengthening Zou unity, KNO said it extends sincere welcome to TCK Anthony to return to ZDV and join hands with Dino Zou.