DIMAPUR: The Naga People’s Front (NPF) 17th Chizami Area Unit held its oath-taking ceremony for newly elected village and town unit office bearers on Thursday at Chizami Town Hall, Phek district. The event was marked by calls for unity, vigilance and dedication to the party’s vision, with Minister for Power, Parliamentary Affairs and chief whip of the NPF Legislature Party, K.G. Kenye, delivering the keynote address.
Kenye congratulated the newly sworn-in office bearers, reminding them of their responsibility to uphold the party’s constitution and objectives. “Every nation, religion and organisation functions according to a constitution. The NPF must remain steadfast in following its guiding principles,” he said, urging members to serve with sincerity and commitment.
Touching upon the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) issue, Kenye recalled that the demand originated in 2010 when the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) submitted a memorandum to the chief minister seeking a separate administrative arrangement. He noted that while the matter remained unresolved for years, it gained momentum in 2023 under the present government. The tripartite agreement signed on February 5, 2026, has brought the issue to an advanced stage, though legislative powers remain under discussion between the Centre and the ENPO. Kenye urged the public to remain watchful and informed about developments.
Addressing the ongoing crisis in Manipur, Kenye highlighted the divisions among Nagas in the hill areas, the Meiteis and the Kukis, which have escalated into serious conflict. He reminded the gathering that the Chizami Assembly Constituency shares a porous boundary with Manipur, urging vigilance over cross-border movements. He emphasized that Nagaland must not allow external conflicts to spill into its territory, stressing the collective responsibility of both government and citizens to maintain peace.
Kenye observed that the Northeast, with its international borders, remains geopolitically sensitive. He cautioned people to exercise restraint in their actions and utterances, noting that Nagaland cannot afford to be drawn into conflicts beyond its borders.
On the Naga political issue, Kenye acknowledged the strong aspiration among the Naga people for a solution but expressed concern over the growing number of political groups with differing demands. He said such divisions have become a stumbling block to progress. Calling for unity among all Naga political groups, he stressed that an early settlement would pave the way for peace, stability and development. Reiterating the NPF’s commitment to the Naga cause, he urged party workers to remain dedicated to the welfare of the people.
Earlier, president of the NPF Phek Division, Chubutse Naro, administered the oath to the newly elected office bearers of the Chizami Assembly Constituency. Advisors including Ciekrosayi Lohe, Salünyi Krocha, Shekhozo Thülüo, Ngaonyi Lea, Nievotso Medeo, Ciekhurayi Vadeo, Kelhouvelo Tsuzuh, Vezopa Wezah and Cekropa Tenenu also addressed the gathering. They urged party workers to strengthen the organisation, uphold integrity, promote inclusive development and work collectively for the welfare of the people.
The programme featured a welcome address by working president of the Area Unit, Zulhite Tsido, who described the coming together of different political parties under the NPF in Chizami as a positive development. He encouraged members to put aside past differences and unite for the party’s growth.
The event was chaired by working president of the Area Unit, Kotsope Rhakho, with cultural contributions including a folk song by vice president of the Area Unit, Ngaopunyi Rume. The invocation was offered by advisor, P. Paul Dukru, while the benediction was offered by advisor, Khelizulo Z. Mero. Treasurer of the Area Unit, Potokho Movi, delivered the vote of thanks.
The house unanimously adopted resolutions congratulating the newly elected office bearers and expressing confidence in their dedication. It reaffirmed unwavering support for Minister K.G. Kenye and extended fullest support to chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio and president of the NPF. The resolutions underscored the party’s commitment to unity and strengthening its organisation under their leadership.