Historic merger: NPF ratifies NDPP resolution, consolidates PDA strength

DIMAPUR — The Naga People’s Front (NPF) on Saturday held back-to-back emergency meetings of its central office bearers (COB) and central executive council (CEC) at the party headquarters in Kohima to formalise the merger of Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) with the NPF.

A press release informed that the CEC meeting was attended by NPF President Apong Pongener, Legislature Party Leader Kuzholuzo Nienu, Secretary General Achumbemo Kikon, and senior party leaders from Nagaland and Manipur, including Minister Awangbow Newmai.

Secretary General Kikon clarified that the merger and adoption of resolutions were being undertaken in line with the party constitution and parliamentary norms. He explained that by officially joining the government, the NPF became part of the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.

“If we don’t join the government officially, then we remain only as outside supporters. The NPF president has therefore issued an office memorandum joining the government to ensure a smooth transition of power,” Kikon said.

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The CEC ratified the resolutions adopted by the NDPP earlier in the day, underscoring the shared intent to consolidate into a single, unified regional political entity.

A follow-up CEC meeting is scheduled for October 20 to complete procedural obligations before submitting documents to the NLA Speaker.

Resolutions adopted

The CEC unanimously:

Endorsed the NDPP resolution adopted at its general convention earlier in the day to merge with the NPF.

Ratified the COB Resolution No. 1, dated October 18, 2025, in conformity with the party’s constitutional provisions.

Placed on record its appreciation to the NDPP leadership for taking a “bold and right decision” to strengthen the regional party.

Appreciated the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for guiding the merger process and achieving consensus.

Reiterated the party’s earlier stand for an early, acceptable, honourable, and inclusive solution to the Indo-Naga political issue.

Earlier, the COB meeting unanimously approved the merger and endorsed NPF participation in the PDA government. Kikon noted that the move was aimed at ensuring a smooth transition of power after NDPP legislators joined the NPF.

The COB adopted resolutions endorsing the merger effective October 18, 2025, appreciating NDPP President Chingwang Konyak and colleagues for strengthening the regional party, and recognising President Pongener for facilitating a seamless transition.

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s return to his original party was welcomed, with assurances of full cooperation to advance the party agenda.