Nagaland: Neiphiu Rio calls for renewed spirit of regionalism under NPF banner

KOHIMA — Chief Minister and Leader of the Naga People’s Front Legislature Party (NPFLP), Neiphiu Rio, on Monday described the recent merger between the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and the Naga People’s Front (NPF) as not just a political homecoming but a reaffirmation of collective responsibility towards unity, peace, and prosperity.

Addressing the central executive council (CEC) meeting of the NPF at the party’s central office in Kohima, Rio said that the transition represented a renewed commitment to regional unity and the founding ideals of the party—‘peace for development and development for peace.’

He urged party members to rise above differences and work with inclusivity, compassion, and purpose to strengthen the regional voice of the Naga people.

Reflecting on the recent political developments, Rio shared that the NPF, during its CEC meeting on September 6, 2025, had made a formal appeal for him to rejoin the party and assume leadership in the larger interest of the Naga people.

The NDPP, which he had led since 2018, reciprocated the gesture on September 12 in the spirit of unity and cooperation.

He acknowledged NPF President Apong Pongener, Secretary General and MLA Achumbemo Kikon, MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu, and leaders and members of both the NDPP and NPF for their support throughout the transition process.

Reflecting on his political journey, Rio recalled his early involvement as president of the Kohima District UDF Youth Wing in 1974 and later as president of the UDF Youth Wing, Nagaland, in 1976–77. He said that those formative years shaped his commitment to teamwork and public service.

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The chief minister recounted that he first entered the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in 1989 as a Congress candidate from the 11-Northern Angami-II Assembly Constituency and later served in various ministerial capacities.

Rio noted that in 2011, the NPF extended its presence beyond Nagaland by launching its Manipur unit at Senapati, followed by the establishment of a unit in Arunachal Pradesh, strengthening the regional voice of the Northeast under a shared vision.

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He also recalled representing Nagaland in the 16th Lok Sabha from 2014 to 2018 before returning to state politics to lead the newly formed Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), which went on to form the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) government in 2018 and again in 2023.

Rio observed that being part of a regional party requires “sacrifice, conviction and resilience,” but stressed that it remains vital to preserve and promote the unique voice of the Naga people within the Indian Union.

While reiterating the importance of regional identity, he maintained that alliances with national parties such as the BJP have been necessary for governance, stability, and development since 2003.

He expressed confidence that with a united vision and sincere leadership, the party could address challenges such as development gaps, youth empowerment, employment generation, and achieving a lasting and honourable Naga political solution.

He emphasised that the NPF’s strength lies in “unity of thought, unity of purpose, and unity of action,” urging members to work together with renewed zeal and commitment towards a stronger and more peaceful Nagaland.

Short speeches were delivered by MLA and former NPFLP leader Kuzholuzo Nienu, Working President Samuel Risom, and Working President Pusazo Luruo.

Secretary General and MLA Achumbemo Kikon welcomed the members and highlighted the NPF tradition that all elected members become part of the CEC.

Earlier, NPF President Apong Pongener, in his welcome address, called upon members to uphold the legacy of the party’s founding leaders.

The NPF also honoured Pongener, who will hand over the presidency to Rio on Tuesday, as well as senior legislator Kuzholuzo Nienu, whom Rio succeeded as Leader of the NPFLP.

The NPF general convention is scheduled for October 21 at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, where the election of new office bearers will be held.