Former MLA, R. Lisen Ao, who was elected to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly twice, passed away in Dimapur on Tuesday evening. He was 83. The body has been taken to Mokokchung where the funeral would be held on Thursday.
Lisen was first elected to the NLA in the general election in 1964 from Jangpetkong Assembly Constituency. He was again re-elected from Mokokchung Town Constituency in the General Election held in 1974. Lisen, who used to preach the gospel among students and people at large, also served as the pastor of Mokokchung Town Baptist Church in 1968.
Even after retirement from active politics, he continued to serve the people by translating, printing and reprinting the books written by early American missionaries in Northeast India.
Speaker: NLA Speaker Chotisuh Sazo has expressed shock over the demise of R. Lisen, former MLA. In a condolence message, Sazo said late R. Lisen infinitely upheld highest decorum on the floor of the house. In his public life, the speaker said Lisen adhered to the principle of honesty, probity, and simple living at all times.
Sazo said he has contributed abundantly for the development of the state, adding that he also demonstrated supreme concern for the welfare of the poor. In his death, Sazo said Nagaland has lost a veteran leader and the loss would irreparable. On behalf of NLA, he conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed God grant them solace and comfort and his soul rest in peace.
CM: Expressing grief at the demise of R. Lisen, Nagaland chief minister T.R. Zeliang said late Lisen, a pioneer Naga theologian and social worker, was also a pioneer state politician who attempted to provide good governance to the people with a liberal dose of Christian ethics to administration.
In his condolence message, the chief minister said even after retirement from active politics, Lisen continued to serve the people by translating, printing and reprinting the books written by early American missionaries.
In his death, the chief minister said Nagas have lost a truly Christian social and political activist who wanted to change the people and society according to the Holy Book.
Chief minister, on behalf of the people of Nagaland, conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members. He also prayed Almighty grant them comfort and solace at this hour of grief.