Carter urged Naga leaders to end division & find reconciliation: FNR

December 31, 2024 4 Views No Comment

DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 31 (MExN): The Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) has paid tribute to former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 30, at the age of 99. Carter, widely regarded as a champion of peace and human rights, played a significant role in encouraging reconciliation efforts among Naga leaders during a crucial phase of the Indo-Naga peace process.

In a statement titled ‘A Tribute to Jimmy Carter,’ the FNR described the late leader as “one of the most inspiring leaders of our time,” highlighting his commitment to diplomacy, servant-leadership, and reconciliation worldwide. Carter, who received numerous accolades including the Nobel Peace Prize, had extended his influence to the Naga reconciliation process in 2008 through a letter addressed to Naga leaders.

Carter’s letter, dated May 11, 2008, was sent to Naga leaders convening in Chiang Mai, Thailand, to discuss reconciliation efforts. In the letter, he acknowledged the pain and divisions within the Naga society but urged leaders to rise above past grievances. “It is easy to recount the wrongs done by one side or the other. Finding the path to peace and reconciliation is difficult. It is a challenge to leadership,” Carter wrote. Drawing inspiration from the biblical story of Esther, he encouraged the leaders by saying, “Perhaps this is your moment to rise to the challenge of leadership for your people and end the division that has brought so much sorrow over the years.”

The impact of Carter’s words was profound. His encouragement and prayers for “a mutually agreed peaceful settlement of the conflict between the Nagas and the Government of India” provided moral support to Naga leaders, culminating in the signing of the Covenant of Reconciliation on June 13, 2008. The FNR emphasized Carter’s belief in negotiation as the path forward, quoting his words: “A peaceful negotiated process is the only way forward.” While Carter refrained from suggesting specific solutions, his conviction in the Naga people’s ability to achieve peace inspired hope during a critical period.

“Today, as we remember Carter’s remarkable legacy as a world leader, we are reminded of his words of encouragement to the Naga people,” the FNR’s statement read. “Let us honor his life by continuing to find our way towards authentic reconciliation and a lasting peace for all Naga people.”

Jimmy Carter’s influence on the Naga peace process was part of his larger commitment to global peace and human rights. Known for his humility and unwavering faith, Carter’s legacy continues to resonate, extending from the halls of power to communities in need of reconciliation, such as Nagaland.