Nagaland CM and NPF President Dr Neiphiu Rio addressing the consultative meeting for the NPF 11th Northern Angami AC held at Chiephobozou on March 28.
Chiephobozou, March 28 (MExN): Nagaland Chief Minister and NPF President Dr Neiphiu Rio on Saturday reiterated the Naga People’s Front's (NPF) unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Naga people, while expressing disappointment over the lack of implementation of agreements signed between Naga political groups and the Government of India.
Speaking at a consultative meeting for the NPF 11th Northern Angami Assembly Constituency at Chiephobozou on Saturday, Dr Rio stressed that no solution can be reached without implementation, stated a press release issued by Press Bureau of NPF.
“Many agreements have been signed, but none have been implemented. Unless this changes, no solution will arrive,” he said.
Dr Rio also emphasised the NPF’s unique position, rooted in Naga history and custodian of the community’s identity, culture, and tradition.
He stated that the NPF is the only party that speaks the truth about Naga history and has produced leaders who genuinely serve the people. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to merge with and lead the party, citing its commitment to the Naga cause as the reason for his loyalty. “If I were driven by self-interest, I would have joined another party,” he said, underscoring his faith in the NPF’s principles.
Dr Rio noted that though the Naga people are yet to be physically integrated, the NPF is working towards political integration amongst the Naga people across borders. He added, “We must work together to ensure that our people reap the benefits of development and progress.”
He urged party members to work towards taking the NPF to greater heights and contributing to the betterment of the Naga people.
Asserting that the NPF is the only party capable of effectively championing the rights of the Naga people, MLA and NPF Secretary General Achumbemo Kikon welcomed Dr Neiphiu Rio’s return to the party, stating that the move underscored his commitment to the community rather than personal ambition.
The MLA emphasised the party’s grassroots approach, which he said was aimed at preserving Naga identity and providing direction to the people. “To be in the party, we must show leadership and direction to the Naga people,” he added.
Kikon noted that the merger of two regional parties had instilled hope among the Naga people and contributed to healing within Naga society, beyond mere political considerations.
Highlighting the party’s six-decade-long legacy, he said the NPF had guided the Naga people through challenging times and stood the test of time. He reiterated that the party was formed with the objective of facilitating a honourable, acceptable, and inclusive solution to the Naga political issue, stressing the need for concrete action towards achieving that goal.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Vizotuonyü Lhoungu, working president 11th Northern AC, welcome address was delivered by Kechalhoubei Talie, president 11th Northern AC and vote of thanks was pronounced by Kehoulie Khubve, general secretary 11th Northern AC.
