Kuki-Zo Leadership Sets Three Preconditions for Ceasefire Ahead of April 5 Peace Talks

Kangpokpi, April 1: In a decisive move ahead of the scheduled peace talks on April 5, the Kuki-Zo leadership in Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi District, has unanimously laid down three non-negotiable preconditions for any cessation of hostilities.

The announcement was made today during a high-level consultation meeting at the KBC Centre Church Hall, Kangpokpi, convened by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), Sadar Hills Kangpokpi District.

The consultation was attended by prominent Kuki-Zo organizations, including the Kuki-Zo Council, Sadar Hills Chiefs’ Association, Kuki Inpi, student bodies, women’s organizations, and tribal representatives. Intellectuals, social activists, and key community figures also participated in the deliberations to decide the future course of action.

Three Preconditions for Ceasefire:

1. No Cross-Movement: The movement of Meitei individuals in Kuki-Zo-dominated areas and vice versa shall be strictly restricted.

2. Structured Dialogue: A formal and meaningful dialogue process must be initiated during the ceasefire period.

3. Six-Month Ceasefire: Hostilities shall be halted for a minimum period of six months to facilitate negotiations.

The declaration comes as the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) prepares for crucial talks between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities in New Delhi on April 5. With tensions still running high, the Kuki-Zo leadership has taken a firm stance, stating that a ceasefire will only be possible if these conditions are met.

A spokesperson from the CoTU emphasized the importance of structured peace talks, stating, “The ceasefire must be meaningful, ensuring that the root causes of the conflict are addressed. These conditions are necessary for a conducive environment for dialogue.”

The April 5 discussions, facilitated by the MHA, aim to explore potential resolutions to the prolonged ethnic tensions in Manipur. However, the rigid stance from the Kuki-Zo leadership signals that without their demands being met, hostilities may continue.