Neiphiu Rio elected as NPF Legislature Party leader; NLA Speaker accepts merger of NDPP with NPF

KOHIMA — Following the resolution of Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) to merge with Naga People’s Front (NPF), the Legislature Party held a meeting on Saturday afternoon at the Chief Minister's Residential Office in Kohima and unanimously elected incumbent Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio as NPF Legislature Party leader.

Taking to social media, Rio stated: “I'm humbled to be elected leader of the NPF Legislature Party. Along with NPFLP, we met Hon’ble Speaker Shri Sharingain Longkumer & submitted our documents. Grateful to my colleagues & party organisations for reposing faith in my leadership & to the Almighty for His guidance & blessings.”

According to party sources, the proposal to elect Rio was moved by Kuzholuzo Nienu and seconded by G Kaito Aye and CL John.

In the wake of this development, the NPF officially submitted its acceptance of the NDPP merger to the NLA Speaker on Saturday, with party President Apong Pongener and MLA & Secretary General Achumbemo Kikon handing over the necessary documents.

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The NLA Speaker subsequently acknowledged the merger and issued an official acceptance letter.

The NPF Legislature Party now has 34 legislators in the 60-member Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA).

It may be mentioned that the NPF is scheduled to hold its general convention on October 21 at Indira Gandhi Stadium (IGS), Kohima.