Dr Neiphiu Rio and others take oath during party leadership ceremony at the NPF General Convention held at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima on October 21. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | October 21
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio has been elected as the president of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) during the party’s General Convention held at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, on October 21.
The convention unanimously elected a new team of NPF Central Office Bearers (COBs), Central Executive Council (CEC), and office bearers of the Frontals and Cells through a show of hands, signifying the collective approval of the house for the tenure 2025–2030.
The COB Working Presidents include Abu Metha, Pusazo Luruo, H. Chuba, and Rusemtong Longkumer.
Meanwhile, Chingwang Konyak has been elected as “President Emeritus” of the party, while MLA Achumbemo Kikon retained his position as NPF Secretary General.
Central Election Board Chairman Pusazo Luruo led the recommendation of the election board, while the oath of affirmation to the new team was administered by NPF outgoing president Apong Pongener.
In his acceptance speech, Dr Rio thanked the rank and file of the NPF and the party leadership for electing him as president.
“I am humbled by this immense honour and extend my heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you,” he said.
He also extended his gratitude to every member from both parties whose dedication, trust, and perseverance made this historic moment possible.
“The successful completion of this merger, the triumph of unity, and the reaffirmation of our oneness now script a new narrative for our people. Let us articulate a vision and design an action plan that will propel our people, especially the younger generations, towards excellence and success not just within the region, but on the global stage,” CM Rio exhorted.
“Our collective aspiration must be to make Nagaland a truly developed State, where merit, fairness, and excellence are the only criteria,” he added.
“With our faith in God and trust in our people, I accept this responsibility with humility, determination, and hope,” the new president noted, adding, “Together, we will move forward for our people, for our land, and for our future.”
He also made a fervent appeal to all sections of Naga society to move forward with determination, conviction, and compassion—towards reconciliation, unity, and oneness.
“Let us send forth the strongest message of Naga solidarity, sounding a clarion call for the Naga family to come together, to unite, and to march forward as one,” he added.
Earlier, Happa Taidang, President of NPF Arunachal State Unit, and Awangbow Newmai, President of NPF Manipur State Unit, shared messages of solidarity.
