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

KOHIMA — The merger of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) with the Naga People’s Front (NPF) was on Tuesday unanimously approved through a show of hands during the NPF General Convention-cum-63rd Foundation Day held at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.

The merger received complete endorsement from all active NPF members present, signifying ratification of the resolutions adopted by the Central Office Bearers (COB) and Central Executive Council (CEC) on October 18.

The general convention also elected a new team of Central Office Bearers, Central Executive Council members, and office bearers of the frontals and cells for the tenure 2025–2030, through a show of hands. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio was unanimously elected as the new president of the NPF.

Resolutions adopted

The General Convention resolved to extend full confidence and support to Neiphiu Rio as Chief Minister of Nagaland and President of the NPF.

It further recorded appreciation for the “bold decision” of the NDPP, under the leadership of its president, Chingwang Konyak, and the guidance of Rio, in achieving the “historic consensus” to unify the two regional parties into one political entity.

Reaffirming its alliance commitments, the NPF resolved to continue strengthening the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) in Nagaland, and to remain a contributing member of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA).

WATCH MORE:

“The party shall continue to make all possible efforts to consolidate these alliances to accelerate inclusive development, ensure progress in all sectors, and contribute meaningfully towards the achievement of genuine peace in Nagaland and Manipur,” the resolution stated.

The convention also underscored the urgency of resolving the Naga political issue, declaring that “an early and honourable settlement of the protracted Naga political issue is indispensable for enabling the youth to participate meaningfully in the pursuit of development and self-reliance.” It urged the Government of India and the Naga political groups to expedite the negotiation process and arrive at an “honourable, acceptable and inclusive” solution.

The party expressed gratitude for the support of the Church, the public, and senior leaders, and appealed for continued blessings and cooperation from all sections of society. It also reiterated earlier COB and CEC resolutions, inviting “old comrades and regionally minded citizens” to join the NPF in the interest of the people.

Also read: Neiphiu Rio elected as Naga People’s Front president; merger with NDPP formalised

‘NPF not merely a political entity’

Delivering the presidential address, outgoing NPF president Apong Pongener said the NPF was “not merely a political entity but a profound movement for the Nagas.”

He described the party as a venerable Naga regional institution that embodies the people’s identity, safeguards autonomy, and celebrates cultural heritage. Pongener urged members to reclaim their pride by revitalising the party with renewed energy and commitment, transforming it into “an unstoppable wave of progress.”

Read more: Nagaland: End of an era and dawn of unity as NDPP merges with NPF

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

Reiterating the NPF’s core principles, he said the party’s stance on resolving the Indo-Naga political issue and strengthening Naga unity remained central to its mission.

New office bearers announced

The convention saw MLA and Secretary General Achumbemo Kikon carry out the formality of endorsing the merger and present the Secretary General’s report, outlining recent activities. Chairman of the Central Election Board, Pusazo Luruo, presented the board’s recommendations and announced the list of office bearers, board members, and cell leaders for the 2025–2030 tenure.

Besides Rio being elected president, Chingwang Konyak was named President Emeritus. The Working Presidents include Pusazo Luruo, Abu Metha, Rusemtong Longkumer, H Chuba Chang, and Ahovi Zhimomi.

Other key appointments include Achumbemo Kikon as Secretary General, Dr. John Murry as Treasurer, Sano Vamuzo as President of the Central Women Wing, Imchatoba Imchen as President of the Youth Wing, and Y Vikheho Swu as President of the Farmers’ Wing, among others.

Earlier in the programme, MLA Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu delivered the welcome address, while solidarity messages were shared by Happa Taidong, President of the NPF Arunachal State Unit, and Awangbow Newmai, MLA and President of the NPF Manipur State Unit.