Kohima: Naga Mothers’ Association president Vilanuo Angela Yhome passed away on July 31 in Kohima. Her death triggered an outpouring of grief from across the state. Leaders, civil society organizations, and community groups are remembering her as a tireless champion of peace and women's rights.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio highlighted her distinguished career as an educationist and administrator. She served on the Bible Review Committee and the Board of the Council of Catholic Women of India. Yhome was also the first woman to serve as Joint Secretary of the Lhisema Council in Kohima Village.
Her work spanned multiple organizations. She held leadership roles with the Nagaland Catholic Women Association, the Cradle Ridge Centre, and the Naga Mothers’ Peace Committee. She also served as General Secretary of the Tenyimi Women Union and was an active member of the Global Naga Forum. Colleagues recall her crucial role in fighting for the 33 percent reservation for women in urban local bodies.
Global Naga Forum convenor Chuba Ozukum praised her character during their time working together on reconciliation efforts. “Angela fought the good fight. She kept the faith. She finished her race with dignity and honour,” Ozukum said. He noted her calm demeanor during difficult political consultations.
The Naga Hoho described her as a pillar of the church and a mother figure to the younger generation. The organization noted that her passing left “a huge vacuum in the socio-political fabric of the Naga people which will not be readily or easily filled.”
Th. Muivah, general secretary of the NSCN (I-M), called her an iconic leader with a strong will. Her influence touched many sectors. The Linguistic Minority Forum of Nagaland, Mao Council, Zeliangrong Youth Front Nagaland, Zeliangrong Mipui Organisation Nagaland, and the Catholic Association of Nagaland also issued formal condolences. These groups lauded her integrity, compassion, and commitment to justice, emphasizing that her legacy will inspire future generations of Naga society.
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