Death anniversary of KNF founder observed
Source: Chronicle News Service

Kangpokpi, October 12 2024: Kuki-Zo people observed Martyrs' Day on Saturday, commemorating the 31st death anniversary of Nehkholun Kuki, the founder of the Kuki National Front (KNF), the oldest and mother organisation of Kuki armed groups.

Thousands of Kuki-Zo people gathered on Saturday morning at Martyrs' Cemetery, Phaijang, in Kangpokpi district, and paid tributes to the late leader and all deceased cadres, who made the ultimate sacrifice for the Kuki cause.

KNF leaders, including its supremo ST Thangboi, the home secretary, the defence secretary, and others, paid floral tributes at the memorial site, followed by members of the organisation and representatives from various civil bodies such as Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills (KISH); Sadar Hills Kuki Chiefs' Association (SAHILCA); Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills; Kuki Women Union Sadar Hills, and others.

KISH president Thangminlen Kipgen, SAHILCA president Haokholen Kipgen, and CoTU general secretary Lamminlun Singsit each highlighted Nehkholun Kuki's vision, simplicity, and unwavering dedication to his people.

They fondly recalled Nehkholun Kuki's relentless efforts to unify the Kuki people, remembering him for traveling across Kuki-dominated territories and forging connections with community representatives in even the most remote regions.

Born in Khoripoh village near Keithelmanbi, Nehkholun Kuki began his campaign to establish the Kuki armed movement in 1986 along the Indo-Burma border, with a vision of creating a homeland for the Kuki people.

According to the KNF supremo, Nehkholun was a man of deep resolve, driven by a vision to uplift and protect his community.

Tragically, Nehkholun was martyred at the hands of security forces on October 12, 1993, in Motbung.

His final resting place at the Phaijang memorial stands as a symbol of his enduring impact on the Kuki people.

Under his leadership, the KNF emerged as a formidable force, later becoming a signatory to the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the central government, he added.

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