Zomi UPF Groups Reject Sept 10 UPF-KNO ‘Kuki-Zo’ Tag

Imphal, September 12, 2026: The Zomi groups of the United People’s Front (UPF) — the Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA), Zou Defence Volunteers (ZDV) and Zomi Re-Unification Front (ZRF) — have clarified that they were neither consulted nor informed before the issuance of a joint press release by the UPF and Kuki National Organisation (KNO).

In a press statement dated September 11, the three groups said their leadership’s consent was neither sought nor obtained before the September 10 joint statement, issued under the title “Kuki-Zo SoO Groups” with reference PR/UPFKNO/26/004.

The groups said, to their knowledge, the statement was also not presented to the constituent members of the UPF for collective consideration. They therefore maintained that the positions expressed in it cannot reasonably be regarded as a collectively mandated UPF position or as representing the ZRA, ZDV and ZRF.

They also questioned the use of the term “Kuki-Zo SoO Groups” without prior consultation, particularly in relation to identity and representation in the public domain. The Zomi groups reiterated that Zomi is the indigenous identity through which their community identifies itself, and said any collective nomenclature should be based on consultation and consent.

At the same time, they said they respect every community and organisation’s right to identify and represent itself according to its own understanding.

The groups stressed that their concern was not with others expressing their views, but with such views being presented in a manner that could be interpreted as representing organisations that were neither consulted nor involved.

They emphasised that collective representation must reflect the consent and participation of those it claims to represent, saying this is essential for clarity of representation and accountability before the government and the public.

The Zomi groups further reaffirmed their commitment to an inclusive, pragmatic and non-communal approach, and to resolving political issues through peaceful and constitutional dialogue. They said differences over identity and representation should not prevent the pursuit of peace where there is mutual respect, understanding and consultation.

The statement, they said, was issued not to create or widen divisions, but to promote clarity and mutual understanding among all concerned. They expressed respect for every constituent member and stakeholder and said they remain committed to working together wherever common ground exists.

The three organisations expressed hope that the clarification would help the government and the public better understand their position and representation as they continue to pursue peace, cooperation and a durable political settlement acceptable to all communities.

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