Thousands pay homage to late Zhimomi
Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network

Dimapur, November 27 2015 : Thousands of mourners paid homage to the lone Rajya Sabha MP from Nagaland late Khekiho Zhimomi today at the Agri Expo site Dimapur, where a State funeral was accorded to the departed leader.

As a mark of respect and honour to the deceased, a guard of honour was given by the 1st Nagaland Armed Police (NAP) Chumukedima.

Chief Minister of Nagaland TR Zeliang expressed deepest condolences to the bereaved family on behalf of the State Government.

Recalling his long association with Lt Khekiho Zhimomi, TR Zeliang described him as a courageous, upright and a visionary leader and said that he has gained invaluable experience through his association with him.

Zeliang also said that as an MP representing the Nagas, the late leader was very vocal about the Naga Political Issue and Article 371(A) .

"He had zeal and determination to serve the people and his leadership to work for the people seems to be inexhaustible", Zeliang maintained.

Describing the late Lt Khekiho Zhimomi as a man with great personality, Zeliang expressed that he was inspired by the courage of Lt Khekiho.

"Looking back at the two and half decade of association, I found him to be a staunch regionalist who was completely convinced that regionalism is the best political alternative", he added.

Terming the loss as painful, Zeliang said that, as a mark of tribute to the late leader, Nagas must unite and work for peaceful Naga solution to fulfil the vision of the departed leader.

MP Lok Sabha, Neiphiu Rio expressed grief and sadness at the sudden demise of his lone colleague.

Sharing the memories of their times together in Parliament, Rio remarked Lt Khekiho was a born leader, committed person, typical Naga and an upright person who was not afraid to speak the truth.

He was a real son of the soil and a huge vacuum has been created by his untimely demise, Rio expressed.

He called upon the gathering to emulate the good qualities of the late leader.

"In doing so collectively, we can achieve the goal for the younger generation and for the Nagas", Neiphiu said.

Rio concluded by saying, "I will never forget and can never forget my association with him".

Short speeches were also delivered by Himato Zhimomi (IFS) and Y Kikheto Sema (IAS) on behalf of Sumi Officers Union, Nagaland.

Minister R&B, Y Vikheho Sumi and MLA G.Kaito Aye spoke on behalf of Sumi legislators.

Condolence message from the Governor of Nagaland PB Acharya, NPF president, Speaker of Nagaland, Chief Secretary of Nagaland, former Governor of Nagaland Shyamal Dutta, Naga Hoho, Nagaland Civil Services Association, Dimapur District Citizens Forum, Indian Red Cross Society NITC and others was also read out during the funeral service.

After the funeral service, the mortal remains of late Khekiho Zhimomi were taken to his son Atomi's residence at Ikishe village for final burial rites.

Lt Khekiho Zhimomi passed away from AIIMS Delhi on November 26.Mortal remains of the deceased were brought to Dimapur last night at around 9.20 .

Late Khekiho was 69 years and is survived by wife Khezheli Zhimomi, 2 sons and 6 daughters.

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