The Naga Rising clarifies its position following the RPP's merger with the NPF, reaffirming its commitment to transparency, justice, and political reform in Nagaland.
DIMAPUR — The Naga Rising (TNR) has issued a public statement following the recent merger of the erstwhile Rising People's Party (RPP) with the Naga People's Front (NPF), stating that the development had necessitated it to clarify its position.
In a statement, TNR stated that the RPP was formed through its initiative to provide an alternative political platform and address the long-felt need for meaningful transformation in Nagaland.
It said the party was intended to function as an independent entity while remaining organically linked to its parent body, TNR.
According to the statement, a group of TNR members led by Joel Naga was entrusted with the responsibility of building the party, while TNR was to guide and support its functioning.
However, TNR admitted that it could not adequately fulfil this responsibility due to its own limitations, including resource constraints.
Referring to the merger, TNR said that when the proposal was brought to its notice, it had advised the RPP leadership to explore every possible avenue to keep the party alive.
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However, it believed that prevailing political circumstances and compulsions had left the party with little choice but to proceed with the merger. It expressed regret that the situation had unfolded in this manner.
The organisation acknowledged the selfless service and sacrifices of the RPP's rank and file, stating that despite their efforts, the party was unable to sustain itself.
TNR wished the former RPP members success in their new political journey and expressed hope that they would remain committed to fighting systemic issues detrimental to the welfare of the people.
Reaffirming its commitment to its founding principles, TNR said it would continue to uphold its vision of establishing "a political paradigm that defines power with morality, a social order that upholds justice for all and equality before the law, a civic governance based on accountability and transparency, and a citizenry that is aware of its rights and respects its obligations."
The organisation also reassured the younger generation that these ideals would continue to guide its future work.