FORMER NAGALAND ASSEMBLY SPEAKER CHENLOM PHOM DIES

Former Nagaland Assembly Speaker M Chenlom Phom died at his residence after a prolonged illness. He was 86 and is survived by his wife, four sons and one daughter. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and current Speaker Vikho-o Yhoshu condoled the death of Phom. In his message, Rio said the former Speaker was a senior statesman who had served the people with commitment. He said in his death the Nagas have lost a seasoned leader whose absence will be deeply felt by all. Phom was first elected as member of Nagaland Assembly in 1977. During his long political career, Chenlom contested nine times from Longleng constituency. He won five times and had served as cabinet minister, deputy speaker and speaker.