Naga People’s Front (NPF) celebrated its 62nd foundation day on October 21 at the NPF Central Headquarters in Kohima.
In his presidential address, NPF president Apong Pongener recalled the party’s founding on October 21, 1963, under the leadership of A. Kevichüsa, marking the establishment of the first Naga regional political party in the newly formed Nagaland state.
He expressed pride in the NPF’s status as the oldest regional political party in Northeast India, second only to Tamil Nadu’s Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) at the national level.
While acknowledging that the party is navigating challenging times, Pongener urged members to unite and strive for the party’s survival. He emphasized that this is not a time for internal criticism, but for rejuvenating the party and reclaiming its past glory.
Pongener also noted that despite undergoing changes in nomenclature, the party’s original ideology, symbol (Rooster), and motto (Fide Non Armis) remain unchanged. He reflected on the party’s resilience over the decades, stating that while they may be at a low point in popularity, he believes it is part of a cyclical recession and that the party will eventually return to power.
He also honored past NPF leaders, including A. Kevichüsa, Huska Sumi, Rano Shaiza, Vamuzo, T. Aliba Imti, Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu, and Vizol, for their leadership. He also expressed appreciation for the two NPF legislators from Nagaland and five from Manipur for their ongoing contributions to the party’s survival and influence.
NPF secretary general and legislator, Achumbemo Kikon stressed that NPF was built on strong ideologies and principles, which have helped the party withstand challenges over time.
He reiterated that NPF’s primary objective was to bring about an honorable solution to the Naga political issue and that the party has stayed true to its commitment and has not faltered in its duties.
He also pointed out that the party had produced seven chief ministers and exuded confidence that the party would regain its past glory.
In her brief speech, wife of former chief minister Vamuzo, Padma Shri Sano Vamuzo called upon the gathering to stand firm on the principles and ideologies of the party.
Earlier, NPF Legislature Party Leader Kuzholuzo Azo Nienu extended the foundation day greetings.
NPF Mkg division: NPF Mokokchung Division commemorated its 62nd Foundation on October 21, at the party office.
A press release by NPF Mokokchung division said that the programme was graced by two central vice presidents from the district, Lanukaba, and Yangerlemba.
Lanukaba, highlighted in brief about the formation of the party and said that the party was founded on the principle of non violence, with the motto “Fide non Armies” and to resolve the Indo-Naga issue and bring all round development to the people.
Yangerlemba, in his address, exhorted the gathering and said that the party should wholly support the ongoing peace process. On the occasion, the gathering resolved to commit and rededicate to uphold the principles of the party.