Nagaland NDPP-NPF merger strengthens unity and stability: Wangpang

In a move aimed at consolidating regional political forces, advisor for Social Welfare, Wangpang Konyak, chaired an NPF co-ordination meeting at Mon on Wednesday with unit presidents from all 15 villages under 43-Tapi Assembly Constituency (AC).
The meeting underscored the historic merger between the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and the Naga People’s Front (NPF), which Wangpang described as a pivotal step towards unity, stability and effective governance in Nagaland.
Highlighting the formation of NDPP in 2017, Wangpang said it was a direct response to public demand for stable leadership amid frequent changes that hindered development. He stated that the rise of NDPP under the leadership of chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio brought peace, political normalcy and continuity.
He emphasized that the merger ensures the enduring spirit of unity and lauded NPF’s longstanding emotional and political ties with the Naga people, describing it as a true representative of their identity and aspirations. “Its contribution to the state’s political journey is deeper and wider than just a political platform,” he added.
Focusing on the 43-Tapi Assembly Constituency (AC), Konyak noted its status as a stronghold of regional party politics since Nagaland attained statehood, with regional parties winning every Legislative Assembly election except in 1993, 1998, and 2008.
He further stated that the absence of an existing NPF structure in Tapi AC made the transition seamless, with all former NDPP leaders and members now integrated into NPF as one solid unit under the leadership of Dr. Neiphiu Rio.
Describing the unification as more than a political alliance, Wangpang termed it a commitment to democratic foundations and regional stability amid Nagaland’s complex challenges. He said the merged entity would consolidate regional interests, advance Naga aspirations and support ongoing efforts toward peace and resolution in the Indo-Naga political issue.