CM Rio outlines vision as new NPF president
Our Correspondent
Kohima | October 21
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio today said that the merger of “our two parties is more than an organisational decision, ‘it is a reflection of our shared vision, mutual respect, and collective determination to work together for a stronger and more inclusive political future.’
“This merger is not merely the joining of two entities, but the uniting of ideals, energies, and shared responsibilities. It embodies our resolve to stand together under a common purpose, to build a robust regional party that can more effectively represent the aspirations of our people and address the long- standing Naga political issue with renewed unity and strength,” Dr Rio said in his acceptance speech as the new president of the NPF during NPF General Convention cum 63rd Foundation day at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
This day reminds us of our rich legacy, the values, and the vision that has guided the party for more than six decades. It is a moment to celebrate our achievements and renew our commitment to the service of our people, he said.
“For the many members who are joining the party for the first time, it is equally a moment of pride to become part of a political movement that has been central to the Naga political journey. With this merger, our regional party stands strengthened, and our family has grown even larger,” Rio said.
Also describing the merger of the NDPP with the NPF where a party with 32 MLAs has joined hands with a party with 2 MLAs as “indeed historic and unprecedented,” Dr Rio said “It reflects the spirit of sacrifice, respect for legacy, and, above all, it sends a resounding message that we are prepared to make any sacrifice for the cause of Naga unity and for the greater good of our people.”
Unity is the only way forward, and through unity we can lead our people to their rightful aspirations, he said. Our foremost priority remains the early and honourable resolution of the Indo-Naga political issue, in a manner that is inclusive and acceptable to all, he said.
“We must relentlessly pursue holistic development, progressive growth, and economic upliftment,” he said. We live in a dynamic and fast-changing world shaped by technology. The younger generation -Gen Zee- is not only ambitious but also the voice of the people. This global trend is visible everywhere, and Nagaland is no exception, he said.
As leaders, if we fail to understand the pulse of the people and their aspirations, we risk irrelevance, he observed.
He said that the youth of today demand meritocracy, efficiency in governance, transparency in development, and timely delivery of their rights and entitlements. In this modern age, the expectations from leadership are vastly different from what they were even a decade ago. Integrity, accountability, selfless service, and a people-first approach are the defining qualities of leadership today, he said.
“Across the world, and even within our neighbourhood, we are witnessing youth-driven movements. No society can remain immune. Technology, social media, artificial intelligence, blockchain, nanotechnology, and constant innovation dominate our world, he said.
To survive, and to succeed, he said, adaptability, creativity, and innovation are imperative. As a people's party and a mass movement, we must constantly evolve or risk being left behind, Dr Rio added.
