Neiphiu Rio urges NPF members to focus on people’s aspirations

KOHIMA — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday called for unity and collective effort to lead the people towards their aspirations, saying that the merger of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) with the Naga People’s Front (NPF) is not merely an organisational move but a reaffirmation of shared purpose and political maturity.

Speaking at the NPF General Convention-cum-63rd Foundation Day held at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, where he was elected as NPF President for the 2025–2030 tenure, Rio said the merger represents “the uniting of ideals, energies, and shared responsibilities” to strengthen the regional political base and address the long-standing Naga political issue with renewed unity and strength.

He expressed gratitude to members from both parties for their role in realising the merger, acknowledging NDPP President Chingwang Konyak for ensuring a smooth transition and NPF President Apong Pongener for facilitating the new arrangement. Rio also thanked Deputy Chief Minister and BJP Legislature Party leader Y Patton and other alliance partners for their continued support.

For many who have rejoined or newly joined the NPF, Rio said it was a moment of pride to become part of a political movement that has been central to the Naga political journey. He noted that the merger not only reinforces the regional party’s strength but also broadens the NPF family.

Related: Signed, Sealed Delivered: NDPP–NPF merger ratified; Neiphiu Rio elected NPF president

Recalling the evolution of the NPF, Rio said the party—originally founded as the Democratic Party of Nagaland (DPN) on October 21, 1963, under A Kevichüsa—had undergone several transformations before being renamed as the Naga People’s Front on November 18, 2008. The reconstitution, he said, sought to expand the party’s presence to all Naga-inhabited areas and uphold the collective vision of unity and oneness among the Naga people.

He also reflected on his own political journey, beginning as Youth Wing President of the Kohima Division and later as State Youth Wing President, before serving as a three-time Chief Minister and Member of Parliament. Referring to past divisions within the party that led to the formation of the NDPP, Rio said the day was not one for recalling “bitter memories” but for celebrating unity and looking ahead “with renewed vision and purpose.”

WATCH MORE:

Rio described the merger as “historic and unprecedented”, noting that a party with 32 MLAs had merged with one with two MLAs—an act that, he said, reflected sacrifice, respect for legacy, and the desire to put collective good above personal or political considerations. “Unity is the only way forward,” he stated, adding that it is through unity that the people can be led to their rightful aspirations.

He urged party members not to look back in regret but to remain focused on the future, asserting that the early and honourable resolution of the Indo-Naga political issue must remain the foremost priority. Alongside that, he said, the state must pursue inclusive development, economic growth, and self-reliance.

Rio emphasised that the current generation of young people, shaped by technology and global trends, expect meritocracy, transparency, and accountability in governance. He said that in an era defined by innovation, adaptability and creativity are essential for both leadership and institutional survival.

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

He stressed that the NPF must continue to evolve as a people’s party and mass movement to remain relevant in a fast-changing world. “Integrity, accountability, selfless service, and a people-first approach,” he said, are the defining principles of leadership today.

Rio described the merger as a reaffirmation of oneness that “scripts a new narrative for the people,” calling on members to articulate a clear vision and action plan to guide future generations and make Nagaland a developed state “where merit, fairness, and excellence are the only criteria.”

Accepting the responsibility “with humility, determination, and hope,” the new NPF president thanked party members for their faith in his leadership.

“Alone I cannot succeed, but together we can realise our shared dreams and collective aspirations,” Rio said.

He further appealed to all sections of Naga society and called for reconciliation, unity, and oneness, stating that a united people can send forth the strongest message of Naga solidarity and move forward as one.