The 3rd Convention of the ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) held here at Indira Gandhi Stadium on November 8. Various speakers, including those from regional parties such as Asom Gana Parishad (Assam), and United Democratic Party (Meghalaya), besides PDA partners, addressed the convention.
NDPP president, Chingwang Konyak, in his address said that Nagaland had been crying for stability, strong leadership and policies to bring positive change to the state. He promised that NDPP along with its PDA partners would provide stability and firm decisive leadership. In line with the motto of NDPP “Deeds not words,” he said the NDPP and PDA partners were envisioning a new, progressive and prosperous Nagaland.
Stating that Nagaland was in dire need of good governance, transparency and accountability, he said “We shall make efforts at all levels of government to combat corrupt practices, nepotism and misuse of government machineries for personal gain.”
He said that the NDPP was of the firm opinion that the Indo-Naga issue should be resolved through a negotiated political settlement, and a solution that is honourable, acceptable and sustainable must be reached at the earliest.
“The party will not be a mere spectator but will be pro-active and do everything possible to strengthen the ongoing peace process,” he said. The NDPP and PDA alliance will play the role of active facilitators to bring an early solution, he added.
Deputy chief minister, Y. Patton in his address assured the people that his party (BJP) was intact with the NDPP led government and asked the people to not be swayed by rumours. He said his party would continue as partners with NDPP to run the government.
Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), Tokheho Yepthomi, in his address, stated that the Indo-Naga political talk was at its final stage and urged the people to be part of Naga history in the journey with the PDA government led by Neiphiu Rio.
President Assam Gana Parishad (AGP) and Assam minister, Atul Bora in his address said that Neiphiu Rio was not only the leader of the state but also a leader at the North East and national levels. He urged the people of the state to continue the cordial relationships with Assam which had been prevalent since time immemorial. He appealed for working collectively for the development of the North East region, which, he said, was lagging far behind other states. He also spoke about the need to find a solution the issue of illegal foreign immigrants to the North East.
General secretary, United Democratic Party (UDP) Meghalaya and co-chairman Meghalaya state planning board, Dr. Jemino Mawthoh, spoke about the need for unity stating that his party would work for unity, development and peace in the state. He said the North East people shared similar concerns in many areas and they should work collectively to address these.
Minister G. Kaito Aye, in his address, promised to strengthen the PDA collision government for a stable government and to work for the development of the state. He said the government was only eight months old and could not do much so far, however under the leadership of Neiphiu Rio, he stated that it would pursue all round development in the state.
President National people’s party Nagaland, Ato Yepthomi in his address re-affirmed his support for the leadership of Neiphiu Rio and said he respected the mandate of the people and any rumour or gossip through social media should not believed.
Minister Tongpang Ozukum, in his address also promised to continue his support for the present government. He said the Nagas need a leader like Neiphiu Rio for stable government and for good governance. Ozukum added that people had many words for the government but the government is decisive, strong and has clear vision of not spouting words alone but displaying development in action.
The program was chaired by working president NDPP Alemtemshi Jamir, invocation prayer was offered by senior pastor CBC MHK & president Kohima Baptist Pastors Fellowship, Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao. A welcome address delivered by working president NDPP, Nuzota Swuro; a Konyak cultural troupe gave a cultural presentation; special numbers were presented by Pretty Rhythm and Naga choir; the secretary’s general report was presented by Abu Metha. The oath taking of elected members of the central executive board, and adoption of resolutions was led by convenor resolution committee and minister, Neiba Kronu. A vote thanks was proposed by convenor organizing committee and minister, Metsubo Jamir. Earlier, president NDPP Chingwang Konyak hoisted the party flag. Thousands of party workers from various districts, blocks and divisions attended the general convention.