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Neiphiu Rio speaking during a programme at Chiephobozou in Kohima on April 5. (EM Images)[/caption]
Kohima Bureau
Kohima, April 5 (EMN): Stating that the unresolved Indo-Naga political issue has denied generations of Naga people of ‘opportunities and avenues’, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Thursday reiterated the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) government’s call for early solution to said issue.
Rio assured the PDA’s ‘all possible efforts to create a congenial atmosphere that will usher in an era of development and growth, and enable the youth to achieve their dreams and aspiration’.
Speaking during a thanksgiving programme organised by the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) unit 11th Northern Angami II assembly constituency at Chiephobozou ground, the chief minister attributed the PDA’s coming to power to blessing from god; and his victory to the people from his constituency.
Rio maintained that his priority was improving the economy of the state by way of creating opportunities and avenues to farmers, entrepreneurs and the educated youth. To achieve this vision, he sought support and cooperation of all, irrespective of party affiliations, to enable the state to enter into a new era of development and growth.
Of his decision to go leave state politics for Delhi in 2013, Rio said that the intention was to pave way for others as he recalled the internal fights among the leaders of the Naga People’s Front party for ministerial berths and portfolios back then.
“I felt that if I stayed for long I will hurt many people so I, and my family, decided that I should to go to Delhi to pave way for others,” shared Rio. The ‘ills of greed and selfishness’ that crept into the NPF had created chaos and unrest then, he said.
During this ‘turbulent period’, the chief minister recalled, he was ‘sidelined, targeted and even suspended’ by the NPF party. “However, I have never retaliated nor said anything that might have hurt anyone. Instead, I wrote to the party president several times calling for reconciliation and peace.”
On the forming of the NDPP, he said that it was never easy. Mobilising party workers and candidates was a herculean task especially when the party’s financial status was ‘not so strong’, Rio said.
At the same, Rio said he never thought of returning to state politics; even though he ‘strongly felt’ that his winning the elections uncontested was god’s will. “Perhaps, this is an awakening call for all of us to humble ourselves before Him and that we should work together for the development and growth of our people,” he said further.
Rio also acknowledged the ‘sacrifices’ made by the president of Bharatiya Janata Party, Visasolie Lhoungou, Dr. Neiphrezo Keditsu and Chüpfuo Kense while paving way for him.
Stating that the formation of the PDA government was the will of God, BJP president and chairman of Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency, Visasolie Lhoungou felt it befitting to give thanks to god. He maintained that ‘peace and development are the two prerequisite desire and cry of every Naga’ for which solution to the Naga political issue is a must.
Keeping this in mind, he said the central government has proposed for a stable government and a strong leadership in the state to achieve the dreams and aspirations of the Naga people.
Likewise, he said god has answered the prayer of the Nagas by giving a man like Rio who is a strong and courageous leader, intelligent, and honest. While reiterating his confidence on Rio’s able leadership, he also requested all to extend cooperation and support to the government.
Rev. Dr. Tseibu Rutsa, president Leaders for Christ International shared from the Bible while a short speech was delivered by Neiyalie Pfüsenuo, president of NAPO.
The chief minister was accompanied by the speaker Vikho-o Yhoshü, Dr. Neikiesalie Kire, Zalie Neikha and others.