Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio exuded confidence that the NDPP-BJP alliance would once again be voted back to power in Nagaland.
On Monday, Rio also filed his nomination seeking re-election from 11 Northern Angami-II assembly constituency, at ADC office Chiephobozou.
Later, kicking off the election campaign at Northern Angami Mechü Ki’ at Chiephobozou, Rio emphasised that leaders should not contest elections for some personal gain but for public welfare. He said electing a leader to be in the government to represent voice of the people was necessary. He remarked that the polls this time were going to be different, but expressed the confidence to form the next government again. He urged party workers and supporters to spread awareness about the projects being implemented in villages by the ruling coalition.
On census and delimitation, Rio said the objective was to carry out the delimitation exercise in a just manner, unlike the last delimitation exercise.
He further maintained that resolving the Naga political issue always remained a top priority for NDPP and the government, and was optimistic of a settlement soon.
As there were more than 12 factions, Rio said solution to the Nagas issue could not be achieved due to the fragmentation and division with the groups. He, however, appealed to all groups to come together for an acceptable and honourable solution at the earliest to usher in a new era of progress and development and also provide opportunities to talented Naga youth.
He said the State government, as a facilitator on Naga political issue, was pursuing an early solution with all seriousness and assured to continue doing the same if voted to power.
On 40:20 seat-sharing formula, he disclosed that the proposal was made by BJP and that the agreement was reached in presence of senior leaders from both the parties and that matter was well settled.
He acknowledged the high command of BJP for respecting NDPP leadership and exuded confidence to meet the expectations of BJP.
Rio informed the media that the alliance partners would work on a common minimum programme for the people in the State.
Applauding the people for giving him the opportunity to serve as chief minister for the fourth time, Rio asserted that the development activities that took place in the past few years during his tenure were much more than what the State had witnessed in the past. He hoped to continue working for the welfare of people of the State.
Earlier, in his introductory speech, NDPP chief agent Theyiekielie Tachü urged party workers and supporters to apprise the people of the government schemes, such as CM Health Insurance Scheme and CM Micro Finance, while exhorting them to work hand-in-hand in choosing an able leader.
The programme was chaired by NDPP president 11 Northern Angami II A/C Vibeilietuo Kets, invocation by Chiephobozou CRC pastor Pavi Pao and special number by Zakuosa Zhale and Vilavor Loucü and CYA Catholic church choir, Chiephobozou.
Modi, Shah to campaign
Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio on Monday informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah were expected to campaign for the NDPP-BJP alliance.
Speaking to media persons after filing his papers as NDPP nominee for 11-Northern Angami-II seat, Rio said they have received information that Modi and Shah were expected to visit Nagaland during the second or third week of February to campaign.
