A party built on prayer and purpose — Rio on NPF’s journey

DIMAPUR — Chief Minister and NPF President Neiphiu Rio on November 1 reaffirmed that the Naga People’s Front (NPF) remains the guardian of Naga identity and cultural values, asserting that the unification of the two regional political parties was an act of divine will.

A press release issued by the party on Sunday stated that Rio made these remarks while speaking at the reception programme for the party’s secretary general in Kohima.

Rio traced the party’s formation, growth and vision, and asserted, “From our formation to our first election in 1964, it has been by god’s grace, through the prayers of believers and the wisdom of our elders.”

Reminding that although the Nagas are few in number, “no one has conquered us,” the chief minister said that the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act of 1873 and Article 371(A) continue to safeguard Naga land, culture and customary laws.

“While we are under the Constitution of India, many provisions of the 16-Point Agreement remain unfulfilled, and we must continue to pursue them,” he asserted.

Recalling his early political journey, Rio said that the NPF—originally the Nagaland People’s Front founded in 2002—was built “brick by brick” with determination and faith.

Also read: ‘Resolution of Naga issue our top priority,’ says NPF’s Achumbemo Kikon

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Referring to the recent merger of NPF and NDPP legislators, he described it as a “historic unification” symbolising Naga solidarity. “The coming together of 32 MLAs with 2 MLAs reflects unity and purpose. We are returning to the historical party that stood for the Nagas,” he said.

Highlighting the change of the state emblem from the Ashoka Chakra to the Mithun, Rio said that it represents Naga pride and unity. “Our new motto, Unity, defines our strength. Oneness earns us respect,” he said, while warning against greed and division.

“God or nature can provide for our needs, but not for our greed,” he cautioned, urging party workers to serve with humility and discipline.

“To be in a regional party is not easy—it is a burden and a sacrifice. But fighting for the Nagas is our responsibility,” the chief minister said, adding that while he may retire as the 10th president of NPF, its “legacy, ideology, and principles must live on through younger generations.”

Rio also appealed to party members to “bury hatred” and renew their commitment to the people. “The party serves not individuals but the people; serving the people should be our priority,” he said.

Addressing the gathering, MLA and NPF Secretary General Achumbemo Kikon described NPF as more than a political organisation—“a movement for the Naga people.”

He credited the merger to god’s will, the people’s cooperation, and the chief minister’s leadership.

Kikon urged party workers to uphold the party’s aims, objectives, and principles in all their actions.