CNF Peace Delegation Arrives in Thantlang amidst Grand Public Welcome
4 January 2012: A ten-member peace delegation from the Chin National Front (CNF) arrives in Thantlang Town this afternoon amidst warm reception from the Chin public who lined up along the town’s main street clad in full traditional Chin dresses.
“The entire town came out to welcome the delegation who travelled from the Indian border on a convoy of seven cars. People just thronged to the street to have a glimpse of the CNF delegation,” said a town elder.
An estimated 3000 people came out to receive the delegation.
“Many people came to Thantlang from rural villages just to see and greet the delegation. Many people were in tears when the delegation walked through the town,” one person said.
The delegation, led by CNF Joint Secretary-General Dr. Sui Khar, is now on its way to the Chin State capital Hakha after attending a grand luncheon hosted by the public at the Township Administrative Office. The delegation is set to meet with the Chin State Government on 5-6 January.
“This is historic! The delegation was welcomed by the Chin people on every village they passed through. People came out to put garland around their necks,” the elder said.
A big billboard at the centre of town reads, “Warm Welcome to CNF Peace Delegation!” Similar message awaits the delegation in Hakha.
The Chin State Government will be represented by Colonel Zaw Min Oo, Border and Security Affairs Minister along with Mr. Win Htun, Mr. Aung Taung, Mr. Aung Min. Representatives from the Union government will also be present during the talks, a CNF source has confirmed.
The CNF delegation was received at the Indian border by members of the Peace and Tranquillity Committee led by Rev. Dr. Lal Uk along with Chin State Minister of Agriculture U Van Thawng, Thantlang Township Administrative Officer U Rum Thang and Zomi Baptist Convention General Secretary Rev. Dennis Ngun Thawng Mang.
Speaking to Chinland Guardian, a Thantlang local has confirmed that the CNF delegation has left for Hakha and is expected to arrive in the capital at 4:30 local time.
Similar reception is planned in Hakha, where the public has put together a series of programs for the delegation.
Led by Dr. Sui Khar, the CNF delegation includes HC. Ral Hnin, Dr. Salai Ngun Cung Lian, Brigadier General Solomon, Mr. Thetni, Mr. Rokhawma, Mr. Hla Htun, Mr. Ngai Cia Thang, Salai Peter Lian and Mr. Khin Maung Lay.
