Nagaland CM's son declines post of advisor to government

As the political crisis in Nagaland's ruling Naga People's Front (NPF) continued, belaguered Chief Minister Shurhozelie Lieziestsu's son Khriehu on Monday declined the appointment to be an advisor to his father in the government.

Khriehu's refusal to accept the appointment comes at a time when majority of the NPF legislators are demanding Lieziestsu's removal as Chief Minister over his undemocratic style of functioning and return of his predecessor T.R. Zeliang.

In a letter to the Chief Minister, Khriehu stated ".... While appreciating you for appointing me as advisor, I convey my regret that I will not be able to accept the assignment given to me due to my other pressing public engagements."

Liezietsu, who is also the NPF chief, had appointed his son as his advisor after he resigned from his Northern Angami-I assembly seat last month to enable Lieziestsu to contest and enter the assembly in order to continue as Chief Minister.

Liezietsu was sworn in as Chief Minister on February 22 this year after Zeliang resigned following violent protest by tribal groups who were opposed to his move to hold civic polls with 33 per cent reservation for women.

Zeliang, who has staked claim to form a government, blamed Liezietsu for the political crisis in the state, noting Liezietsu was appointing his son (Khriehu) as his advisor, granting him the status of a cabinet minister without consulting the legislators.

Meanwhile, Additional Chief Secretary, Home, Temjen Toy on Mondal held a meeting with the administrative heads of departments in the wake of the political crisis and rued that many officers and other employees have been taking undue advantage of the crisis to neglect their duties.

Stating that bureaucracy will continue to function under any circumstances, he asked the administrative heads to instruct their employees to work sincerely and attend office regularly.

--IANS

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