UKHRUL: The Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) has mourned the demise of Naga National Council (NNC) president, general (retired) Thinoselie M. Keyho, remembering him as a prominent Naga leader whose contributions strengthened the Naga national movement. He was 96.
In a condolence message issued by NPMHR secretary general Neingulo Krome from Kohima on October 31, NPMHR said Keyho passed away at Naga Civil Hospital, Kohima, on October 30, 2026. The organisation expressed shock and sadness over his death, stating that it was unaware of his hospitalisation.
NPMHR recalled its association with Keyho through various initiatives concerning human rights and the Naga people’s cause. It said the late leader had played a significant role in nurturing and strengthening the Naga political movement through his commitment and leadership.
The prominent Naga rights advocacy organisation particularly remembered his extensive missions to neighbouring countries during some of the most difficult periods in Naga history, saying his efforts had helped strengthen the national movement.
It also highlighted his ability to put the larger Naga national issue above ideological differences and factional politics. According to NPMHR, Keyho made efforts to engage with former comrades on crucial issues, even at the risk of being misunderstood by others.
Describing him as an unwavering leader who remained committed to his convictions despite life’s difficulties, NPMHR said his sacrifices and contributions would remain an enduring part of Naga history and serve as an inspiration for younger generations.
The NPMHR conveyed its deepest condolences to his wife, children, family members and loved ones.
ALSO READ NSCN-Unification Deputy Army Chief Maj. Gen. Yekuto Kappo joins NSCN-IM
A brief profile of Thinoselie M. Keyho
Born on May 11, 1930, at Chedema village in Kohima, Nagaland, Thinoselie Medom Keyho joined the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) on June 11, 1956, as secretary to the director of intelligence. He was promoted to brigadier in 1957 and later served as a military commander of the Naga Army.
In 1963, he led a contingent of 132 Naga Army soldiers to East Pakistan as its military commander. He was subsequently promoted to lieutenant general in 1968 and undertook a diplomatic mission to Dhaka in 1971.
Beyond his military role, Keyho also served as president of the Angami Public Organisation from 1980 to 1984 and was associated with the Naga National Workers’ Convention from 1981 to 1990, working towards unity among Naga political groups.
On May 11, 2016, he was unanimously elected president of the Naga National Council (NNC) at its general meeting held at Yorüba in Phek district, Nagaland. He continued to lead the organisation until his demise on October 30, 2026.
(Source: Funeral programme, A Life Remembered, page 4)
ALSO READ ECI Defers SIR Schedule in Tripura Ahead Of Urban Local Body Polls
