Unity must rise above political differences: Rio
Correspondent
KOHIMA, JUL 11 (NPN): Rising People’s Party (RPP) officially merged with the ruling Naga People’s Front (NPF) during a programme held at the NPF Central Office here on Friday.
RPP was formed in 2021 as a regional party with a focus on transparency, anti-corruption and governance reforms. The party made its electoral debut in the 2023 Nagaland Legislative Assembly election by fielding a candidate from Tseminyu district but failed to secure a seat.
Addressing the gathering, NPF president and state chief minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, described the merger as more than the coming together of two political organisations, saying it represented the convergence of people, ideas, experiences and aspirations.
He said the merger strengthened the forces of unity and sent a clear message that when the larger interests of the Naga people were at stake, political leaders must rise above individual differences and work together.
Recalling his long association with the family of RPP president Joel Naga, Rio said he had worked with Joel’s father during their days in the Congress and noted that while politics may take individuals through different journeys and platforms, relationships, shared history and commitment to the people endure. He welcomed Joel Naga and his colleagues into the NPF, describing their decision as one that reflected courage, maturity and foresight.
Rio also recalled his family’s close relationship with former legislator Ngurohie Zao, who served in the first Nagaland Legislative Assembly in 1963.
Speaking on the political situation in the state, Rio noted that Nagaland today has an opposition-less government, with all elected members of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly agreeing to work together in the larger interest of resolving the Naga political issue. He said this arrangement carried a deeper message that all Nagas must remain united on the issue concerning the future and destiny of the Naga people.
He reiterated that Naga political issue remained the highest priority of both the NPF and People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) government, stressing that all sections of Naga society must come together in a spirit of unity and oneness.
Rio said the NPF had a historic responsibility to serve as a common political platform for Nagas across their contiguous homeland. He noted that the party was currently part of the governments in both Nagaland and Manipur and expressed confidence that it would strengthen and expand its presence in other Naga-inhabited areas in the future.
Welcoming the merger of RPP into NPF, Rio described it as another important step towards greater unity, saying every merger removed divisions and brought the Naga people closer to their collective aspirations.
Rio said the NPF would continue its alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stating that the partnership was guided by the shared objective of securing an early political solution and accelerating development in Nagaland. At the same time, he said the party remained firmly committed to safeguarding Naga identity, traditions and Christian values, which have shaped the State’s social and cultural fabric.
Describing the NPF as a regional party with a national outlook and global vision, Rio said the party remained committed to India’s nation-building process while protecting the unique identity, history and traditions of the Naga people. He encouraged Naga youth, professionals, entrepreneurs, sportspersons, artists and intellectuals to aspire for greater achievements on national and international platforms.
Appealing to Nagas across all regions, particularly those in Manipur ahead of the upcoming elections, Rio invited them to join the NPF and strengthen the movement for Naga unity. He said politics should not only be about differences but also about reconciliation, bridge-building and preparing a better future for coming generations.
Welcoming Joel Naga and all RPP members into the NPF family, Rio expressed confidence that their experience, ideas and commitment would strengthen the party. He concluded by calling upon all Nagas to place the interests of the people above differences and work together towards unity, stability, development and a common Naga voice.
Earlier, RPP president Joel Naga formally announced the merger of the RPP with NPF.
The official declaration of the merger and felicitation programme was conducted by NPF secretary general and advisor, Achumbemo Kikon.
The programme also witnessed the oath-taking ceremony for five newly appointed office-bearers, administered by NPF working president Pusazo Luruo. The appointments included Joel Naga as vice president (COB), Vitho Zao as vice president (COB), Amai Chingkhu as general secretary (COB), Likhro Kreo as secretary and Zhokhoi Chuzho as vice president of the Central Youth Wing.
President Emeritus of the NPF and advisor to the chief minister, Chingwang Konyak, also addressed the gathering.
Advisor to the NPF president and chief minister, Apong Pongener, delivered the welcome address, while the invocation was offered by Rev. Yamyap Konyak, former State Chaplain.
The programme was chaired by NPF working president Ahovi Zhimomi and concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by senior vice president Charlie Sekhose.