A defining message of duty, courage, and national resolve for the defenders of Zogam
ZPCC Media | November 15, 2025
The Passing Out Parade of the 40th Batch of the Zogam Army, at Olive Camp, was marked not only by military discipline and ceremonial precision, but by a historic and deeply stirring address from Colonel Mason, Commander-in-Chief of the Zomi Revolutionary Army – Eastern Command (ZRA-EC). His words have since resonated across Zogam, reaffirming the spiritual, cultural, and political foundations of the Zomi national struggle.
Delivered under the authority of the Zogam Charter, which recognizes ZRA-EC as the sole legitimate defense force of the Zomi people, the Commander-in-Chief’s speech was a powerful reminder of duty, identity, and the unbroken lineage of Zomi resistance and unity.
“You rise today not as trainees, but as guardians of a nation.”
In his opening remarks, the Commander-in-Chief elevated the ceremony beyond a military transition:
“Today, you do not merely pass out as soldiers—you rise as guardians of a nation.”
He underscored that each defender’s commitment is rooted in history, identity, and inheritance — core principles enshrined in the Zogam Charter.
“The uniform you wear is responsibility; the weapon you carry is trust.”
Colonel Mason emphasized that the symbols of military service represent much more than appearance:
“The uniform you wear is not cloth; it is responsibility.
The weapon you carry is not wood or metal; it is the trust of the Zomi people.
The ground you stand on is not soil; it is the inheritance of your ancestors.”
This powerful imagery reinforced the sense of sacred duty expected from every Zomi defender.
Discipline and vigilance: Non-negotiable values of ZRA-EC
The Commander-in-Chief reminded the new batch that their real work begins now:
“Training may end today, but duty begins.
The Zomi nation expects vigilance, unity, and unmatched discipline from each one of you.”
He stressed that the responsibility carried by ZRA-EC is not temporary or symbolic — it is foundational to the survival and flourishing of Zogam.
ZRA-EC Serves Only the Zomi Nation
Colonel Mason’s message drew a clear and firm line regarding loyalty and legitimacy:
“No force, no ideology, no organization shall overshadow the sovereignty of Zogam.
As long as we stand united, Zomi shall never be conquered.”
He affirmed that ZRA-EC, operating under the ZPCC’s mandate, exists solely to defend the Zomi people, their land, and their identity — free from external coercion or factional interference.
“We defend. We do not oppress.”
Upholding the Zogam Charter’s core values of Freedom – Truth – Equity, the Commander-in-Chief stated:
“We are defenders—not aggressors.
We protect, not oppress.
Our strength comes from righteousness, and our authority comes from the people.”
This principled declaration drew strong responses from cadets and spectators alike, echoing across the parade grounds.
A Final Blessing and National Commissioning
Colonel Mason concluded his address with a solemn prayer, commissioning the new defenders into lifelong service for their people:
“Go forth with courage.
Stand firm for Zomi identity.
Protect our land, our people, and our future.
May God grant you wisdom, clarity, and unshakeable resolve.”
The moment was met with resounding applause, marking it as one of the most memorable speeches in recent ZRA-EC history.
A Defining Moment for Zogam’s Future
The Commander-in-Chief’s charge to the 40th batch serves as a renewed call to unity and discipline at a time of continued territorial threat and political instability. His words reinforce the ZPCC’s national mandate under the Zogam Charter:
- To safeguard Zomi identity and land
- To build disciplined institutions aligned with democratic values
- To uphold the rights and aspirations of the Zomi people
- To protect Zogam until a democratically elected Zomi government is installed
For the 40th batch, the speech marks not the end of training but the beginning of lifelong duty — duty rooted in honor, heritage, and the collective destiny of the Zomi nation.
