NDPP Dimapur inducts new team; Moatoshi, Hekani highlight party vision

Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) Dimapur Region inducted its new office bearers for the tenure 2024 to 2027 at a programme held at Town Hall, Dimapur, on Monday.
Gracing the occasion, advisor for Labour & Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, and Excise, Moatoshi Longkumer, welcomed the newly inducted members on behalf of all NDPP legislators from Dimapur. He described their decision to join the NDPP as a “right choice” and encouraged them to embrace the responsibilities that come with party membership.
Longkumer highlighted the achievements of the NDPP under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, party president Chingwang Konyak, and secretary general Abu Metha. He credited the trio for “moving mountains” in advancing the state, particularly in sports, culture, and tourism, and placing Nagaland on both national and international platforms.
Addressing the new office bearers, Longkumer emphasized that joining the NDPP should not be viewed as a casual endeavour but as a serious commitment to bridge the gap between governance and the people. He urged them to uphold party principles with loyalty and integrity, while cautioning against the trend of shifting political allegiance for personal gain, such as being denied a party ticket. “Such culture indicates an unstable mind, lack of integrity, and selfishness,” he remarked.
Encouraging the inductees to develop leadership qualities, he stated that they were now party functionaries in the making of future leaders. He called on them to demonstrate commitment, humility, tolerance, and capability so that they may be recognized as leaders of tomorrow. Concluding his speech, Longkumer expressed hope for collaborative efforts in the party’s best interest.
Advisor for Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, also addressed the gathering. She congratulated the new office bearers and urged them to treat the occasion not merely as a formality but as a moment to recommit to the party’s vision and work for the betterment of the state.
Hekani reflected on her earlier perception of politics as a game, stating that she now views it as a serious endeavour that shapes future generations. She credited NDPP’s victory in all three Dimapur Assembly Constituencies to the tireless efforts of party workers and acknowledged the instrumental role played by every member in forming the government.
Echoing Longkumer’s sentiments, Hekani noted that many Nagas lack clear political ideologies. “Unless we believe in an ideology, we will go where the wind blows,” she cautioned. She described NDPP as the voice of the people and the only party that truly understands the challenges, strengths, and aspirations of the Naga people.
Touching on the challenges faced by legislators, Hekani pointed out that while every elected representative desires development, financial constraints remain a major hurdle. She revealed that the state’s budget for 2023–2024 stood at Rs 24,000 crore, with 75–80% allocated to salaries, wages, and pensions, leaving only 15–20% for development. “The state cannot generate its own revenue, and unlike our neighbouring states, we lack our own resource generators,” she said.
Hekani stressed that development is a collective responsibility and urged citizens to extend full cooperation. She called on party workers to bridge the gap between the state government and grassroots communities and ensure that people are informed about central government schemes and programmes.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by general secretary (designate), NDPP Dimapur Region, Joel Ngullie. Invocation was offered by Youth Pastor, Lotha Baptist Church, Dimapur, Longshithung Patton, while the welcome address was delivered by vice-president (designate), Central Executive Board (CEB), Tokheli.
The installation and oath of allegiance were administered by senior vice-president, NDPP Nagaland, and convenor, State Election Committee, Charlie Sekhose. Vote of thanks was delivered by advisor, CEB, Lipok Pongen.
It may be noted that Vihoshe Awomi and Joel Ngullie were re-elected as president and general secretary, respectively, of NDPP Dimapur Region, along with new office bearers for all three Dimapur Assembly Constituencies.