CoTU Reformed, New Leadership Emerges as Kuki-Zo Tribal Unity Stands Firm in Conflict-Hit Manipur

In a decisive step at a time when the Kuki-Zo tribal community in Manipur continues to endure two years of violence and displacement, the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has been restructured under the aegis of the Sadar Hills Chiefs’ Association (SAHILCA). The election and dedication of new office bearers were held today at SAHILCA office, Kangpokpi District Headquarters, with Rev. Dr. S. Chongloi officiating the ceremony.

The reformation marks a renewed chapter in the CoTU’s role as the principal voice of the Kuki-Zo tribal people in Sadar Hills, symbolizing unity and resilience in the face of adversity.

Lunthang Haokip now assumes charge as Chairman, backed by a reinforced leadership team of five Vice Chairmen, each assigned to key portfolios critical to the ongoing crisis:
Defense & Security Affairs – Thangminlen Kipgen, President of Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills; Medical – Thangkam Lupheng, President of Kuki Inpi Saikul Gamkai; Relief – Dama Vaiphei; Finance – Kaiminlen Sitlhou; Women, Food & Civil Supplies – Helms Hangshing.

Other crucial appointments include: General Secretary – Jangkholim Khongsai; Joint Secretary – Lamminlun Singsit; Finance Secretary – Thangkhomang Chongloi (assisted by Manghekam Kipgen and Seiminlal Lhouvum); Information & Media Cell – Thangtinlen Haokip; Spokesperson – Ngamminlun Kipgen; Defense Convenor-cum-Secretary – Lamminthang Kipgen; Relief Convenor – Lunseh Kipgen; Women’s Department Convenor – Nengboi Hmar; Medical Convenor – Lelen Kipgen; Office Secretary – N.S. Gangte; Prayer Cell Convenor – Rev. Thangsat Kipgen

The Committee has also appointed Block and Area Incharges to strengthen its grassroots structure, while presidents of all the Kuki-So tribe’s organizations in the district will automatically serve as executive members. The new leadership will operate with the guidance of a six-member Advisory Board.

The reformation of CoTU comes at a critical juncture. For the Kuki-Zo people, CoTU has been more than an organization; it has been the shield and the voice of a community under siege. In the face of relentless challenges, its restructured leadership signals both continuity and renewal of the tribal struggle for security, dignity, and justice.

With a two-year term and annual reviews, the newly elected office bearers carry the responsibility of steering the community through ongoing uncertainties. Their mandate is clear: to safeguard the people, coordinate relief, ensure unity, and amplify the collective voice of the Kuki-Zo in Manipur’s fractured political landscape.

As violence and displacement continue to define everyday life for thousands, CoTU’s renewed leadership stands as a reminder that tribal unity remains unbroken — determined to endure, resist, and rebuild in the face of one of the darkest chapters in Manipur’s history.