The 8th Death Anniversary of Ayekpam Wangpa alias Tonna, former Chief of Army Staff of the Manipur People’s Army (MPA), the armed wing of the proscribed United National Liberation Front (UNLF), was observed today with a memorial service held at the sacred grounds of Ima Thongak Lairembi, Langol. As part of the observance, a statue of the departed revolutionary leader was formally unveiled.
The memorial event was organised by the Ayekpam Wangpa Memorial Trust and attended by family members, comrades, and well-wishers who offered floral tributes and shared reflections on Wangpa’s life and legacy.
Addressing the gathering, former UNLF Chairman RK Sanayaima paid rich tributes to Wangpa, describing him as a steadfast and selfless revolutionary who dedicated his life to the cause of Manipur’s sovereignty. He lamented the current atmosphere of fear and restriction, noting that even speaking freely in public spaces has become difficult. He asserted that Wangpa’s unwavering commitment continues to inspire and symbolise resistance in the face of oppression.
Sanayaima said Wangpa’s ideals remain especially relevant at a time when Manipur is grappling with socio-political turmoil. He highlighted Wangpa’s vision of a just society, free from exploitation, where diverse communities could coexist with mutual respect. He called for unity among all indigenous communities of Manipur, including the Meitei, to safeguard their collective future. If full unity is not immediately possible, he added, steps must be taken through dialogue and mutual understanding.
Reflecting on Wangpa’s revolutionary journey, Sanayaima recalled that he was a fearless and principled leader who shaped a significant chapter in Manipur’s political history. He urged the youth to draw inspiration from Wangpa’s life and carry forward his ideals of courage, discipline, and sacrifice.
Born in 1975 at Naoremthong Laishram Leirak, Ayekpam Wangpa joined the armed movement at a young age. He rose through the ranks and was appointed Chief of Army Staff of the MPA in 1997. In 2014, during the organisation’s General Assembly, he was entrusted with the role of Vice Chairman of the UNLF. Despite personal and political challenges, he continued to serve in the position until his passing in 2017.