CoTU reconstituted to strengthen Kuki-Zo tribal unity amid ongoing crisis in Manipur

The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), representing the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur’s Sadar Hills, has been restructured under the Sadar Hills Chiefs’ Association (SAHILCA) amid ongoing violence and displacement affecting the community. 

The election and induction of new office bearers were held today at the SAHILCA office, with Rev. Dr. S. Chongloi officiating the ceremony.

Lunthang Haokip assumed charge as Chairman, supported by a leadership team of five Vice Chairmen overseeing Defence & Security, Medical, Relief, Finance, and Women, Food & Civil Supplies portfolios. Other key appointments include Jangkholim Khongsai as General Secretary and Lamminlun Singsit as Joint Secretary, alongside convenors for relief, medical, women’s affairs, and other critical departments.

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Block and Area Incharges were also appointed to strengthen CoTU’s grassroots presence, while presidents of all Kuki-So tribal organisations in the district automatically serve as executive members. The leadership will operate under the guidance of a six-member Advisory Board.

The reformation comes at a crucial time for the Kuki-Zo people, reaffirming CoTU’s role as the primary voice and protector of a community grappling with prolonged unrest. With a two-year term and annual reviews, the newly elected office bearers are tasked with safeguarding the community, coordinating relief efforts, maintaining unity, and amplifying the collective voice of the Kuki-Zo in Manipur’s complex socio-political landscape.