Aizawl, April 14: Mizoram Governor Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd) on Tuesday highlighted that the state’s history is unique, a remarkable journey from struggle and conflict, through reconciliation, to lasting peace and progress. Releasing the book From Guerrilla Fighter to Chief Minister, authored by former Chief Minister Zoramthanga, at the Aijal Club here, the Governor lauded it as a significant and reliable historical document that offers valuable insights into key phases of Mizoram’s political history.
He described the book as far more than a mere personal narrative, noting that it chronicles the author’s remarkable journey from insurgency to responsible democratic governance and statesmanship. Singh said the memoir serves as a powerful reminder that dialogue, understanding, and perseverance can overcome even the most difficult challenges.
The Governor praised Zoramthanga’s dedication and lifelong desire to learn, saying these qualities reflect exceptional political acumen and true statesmanship. “It shows that if there is a will, there is a way,” he remarked. He commended the author for documenting history through his lived experiences and expressed hope that the memoir would help the younger generation better understand the complexities of conflict while appreciating the true value of peace and the strength of democratic institutions.
Singh observed that the book will prove to be a valuable resource for students, scholars, policymakers, and citizens alike. Author and former Chief Minister Zoramthanga described the release of the book as a deeply significant milestone in his life. He revealed that he had meticulously maintained personal diaries for 50 years, which served as key references while writing the memoir.
Zoramthanga, who is also the President of the Mizo National Front, the state’s principal opposition party, emphasised that most of the events described in the book were personally witnessed or experienced by him. He expressed sincere gratitude to all those who assisted in the preparation and publication of the book and said he hoped the memoir would not only benefit the Mizo people but also enable readers from other communities to gain a clearer and deeper understanding of Mizo history.
The former Chief Minister also shared a memorable personal anecdote, recalling that he had first met the Governor decades earlier during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, when Singh was serving as a young Lieutenant in the Indian Army. Zoramthanga noted that it was a remarkable and unexpected coincidence that the same officer is now releasing his book as the Governor of Mizoram. During the event, Lalnunkimi Colney delivered an insightful preview of the book. Octogenarian veteran Mizo leader Zoramthanga served as the Chief Minister of Mizoram for three terms (1998-2008 and 2018-2023).
IANS
