In a significant appeal for unity within the Naga political landscape, N. Kitovi Zhimomi, Ato Kilonser of the GPRN/NSCN, on Wednesday called for the integration of the Framework Agreement and the Agreed Position into a single, comprehensive solution to the decades-old Indo-Naga political issue. The remarks came during a “reunion programme” held at the GPRN/NSCN-designated camp in Khehoyi, Niuland district, Nagaland.
The event, held on April 16, follows recent internal conflicts within the group and the subsequent retaking of the Khehoyi camp—the headquarters of the faction—on March 22 this year. It also comes in the wake of the signing of a one-year extension to the ceasefire agreement between the GPRN/NSCN and the Government of India.
Call for a unified draft
Addressing the press after the reunion programme, Kitovi emphasized the urgent need for a unified approach to the Naga peace process. “What we are saying to the Government of India is this — as of now we have two historical agreements: the Framework Agreement and the Agreed Position. So why not take both the agreements, compile them, and come up with a common draft or a common solution?” he said.
He reiterated that the solution should not be exclusive to any one faction, stating, “There will be only one agreement and only one solution for all the Nagas — not for NNPG alone, or for NSCN-IM alone.”
Kitovi also expressed concern that the NSCN-IM has so far insisted on basing the final agreement solely on the Framework Agreement, while the contents and competencies of the FA remain unclear to others. “We are not saying that we will take the solution only based on the Agreed Position and ignore the Framework Agreement,” he added, proposing a more inclusive and transparent process.
Referring to the 16-Point Agreement, Kitovi acknowledged its role in the development and stability that Nagas enjoy today. “I am also one of those who have eaten the fruits of the 16-Point Agreement and it has moulded and built up my life to this extent,” he said. However, he raised concerns for future generations.
“For our children’s children, what is there?” he asked, citing that Nagaland has over 90,000 registered educated unemployed youth, with the actual number likely exceeding one lakh. “Up to this day, we are satisfied and comfortable with the 16-Point Agreement. But for the younger generation, we need a clear road map.”
During his address, Kitovi strongly emphasized reconciliation and the cessation of internal violence. “We do not want bloodshed now. We don’t want to kill others nor do we want to die, because no matter how many have died in the past, we could not bring any solution,” he said.
He called on Naga civil society—including tribal bodies and political groups—to come together on a common platform, stating that the fight for Naga aspirations should now be waged with intellect rather than violence.
“We have created countless women without husbands—widows, and countless children without fathers. And even now, if we don’t reconcile within the Nagas, we will see the violence return. Hence, whatever may happen now, the Naga civil authorities and the leadership should fight with their brains, but there should be no more fighting or killing within the Naga Army,” Kitovi said.
The Khehoyi camp, which was previously referred to as the “Unification Camp,” will now be officially known as the “GPRN/NSCN Designated Camp,” he declared, noting that the camp had ironically given rise to multiple factions in the past. “Unless they all come together, it wouldn’t serve the purpose,” he said.
The press conference also saw Kitovi addressing internal controversies, including his impeachment last year. He alleged that the move was orchestrated to prevent him from investigating corruption within the group. “Just to cover up corruption and to escape, they impeached me,” he stated.
He also noted that some leaders who were expected to attend the reunion programme did not turn up. “Those who deliberately wanted to break the group did not turn up today. But one or two leaders, for their personal interests, the entire Naga cannot be sabotaged,” he said.
Kiyeto Zhimomi of the GHQ, Naga Army, echoed Kitovi’s sentiments, expressing exhaustion over prolonged internal conflicts. “The military is tired of so much fighting. Our families and our children have seen it all. There are too many widows, and those with no fathers and mothers unable to raise their children,” he said.
Kitovi also acknowledged the fatigue and frustration among the Naga people regarding the protracted political struggle. “I know, I feel the pulse of our people. People are tired, and I know people are fed up with this movement. How long shall we indefinitely continue like this without any guarantee?” he asked, urging for peace to return to public life in Nagaland.
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