Photo Courtesy: nenews
Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has hailed the Election Commission of India's formal approval of the merger between the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party and the Naga People's Front. Describing the milestone as a historic moment, Rio stated that the decision marks the start of a golden period for the unified regional party. The Election Commission order confirms the NPF as the singular political entity, while the NDPP has ceased to exist as a separate organization.
The merger, which was initially announced in October of last year, combines the ruling NDPP and its 32 legislators with the NPF and its two representatives. Rio expressed his satisfaction with the transition, describing the development as a return to his original political home. He reaffirmed the NPF as the primary custodian of Naga rights and identity, urging members to prioritize public service and organizational discipline over personal ambitions.
During a ticket distribution ceremony for the 2026 Town Council by-elections, party leaders confirmed that all legal formalities are now complete. NPF secretary-general and MLA Achumbemü Kükün noted that the party has received the official communication required to finalize the consolidation. The event also featured the introduction of candidates Neichüü Kuotsü, Shikavi Kiba, and Aling Lotha, who will contest the upcoming municipal elections in Chümoukedima, Atoizu, and Wokha.
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