The NPP has alleged political pressure and coercion behind the defection of its municipal councillors to the NPF.
DIMAPUR — The National People's Party (NPP) has expressed concern over what it described as the repeated targeting of its elected representatives by the Naga People's Front (NPF), following the recent defection of two NPP municipal councillors from Kohima to the NPF.
In a press statement issued by national working president James K Sangma, the party said the latest defections came after a similar incident involving two NPP municipal councillors from Dimapur, suggesting what it termed a "deliberate pattern" rather than isolated political developments.
The NPP said political competition should be based on ideology, public service and the confidence of the people, rather than attempts to weaken other parties by targeting their elected representatives through what it described as undemocratic practices.
The party further alleged that reports and representations received by it indicated that pressure had been exerted on elected councillors through threats that development funds and government schemes would not be made available unless they joined the ruling party.
"If such allegations are true, they raise serious concerns about the misuse of political influence and undermine the democratic principle that development belongs to the people and should never be used as an instrument of political coercion," the statement said.
The NPP added that democracy loses its meaning when access to public resources is perceived to depend on political allegiance.
Also read: Naga People's Front tightens grip on KMC as two NPP councillors switch sides
The party said it has consistently maintained cordial political relations with both regional and national parties, including the NPF, and expressed disappointment over what it described as repeated attempts to target the elected representatives of a partner political party instead of allowing healthy democratic competition.
The statement said the party is reviewing the political developments in Nagaland and will take necessary organisational measures to strengthen its structure at every level.
It said recent events have reinforced the need to consolidate the organisation, nurture committed grassroots leadership and build a stronger cadre-based party capable of withstanding defections.
Reaffirming its commitment to the people of Nagaland, the NPP said it believes the public desires constructive politics founded on credibility, accountability and public service rather than politics driven by defections and political expediency.
The party also assured its workers and supporters that it would emerge stronger from the present challenges and continue working to provide what it described as a credible political alternative in the state.