Neiphiu Rio has described the Election Commission of India’s approval of the merger between the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and the Naga People’s Front (NPF) as a “historic moment” and a “golden period” for the unified regional party in Nagaland. Addressing a ticket distribution programme for the upcoming Town Council by-elections 2026, Rio said the Election Commission’s order earlier this month had officially recognised the NPF as a unified regional political party, while the NDPP had ceased to exist as a separate entity following the merger. The ruling NDPP, which earlier had 32 MLAs in the Nagaland Assembly, had formally merged with the NPF, which had two legislators, in October last year.
Rio, who also serves as the president of the NPF, expressed satisfaction over returning to what he called his “original political home”. He said he felt “very comfortable” being back in the party and described the NPF as the true custodian of Naga rights, identity and dignity. “The party was established solely to safeguard the rights, identity and dignity of the Naga people,” Rio said while addressing party leaders and workers. Calling the merger a new beginning for the regional party, the chief minister urged party members to maintain unity, discipline and sincerity while working for the people. “This is a time for renewal,” he said, adding that party workers should place public interest above personal ambition. Rio also reminded party members that the NPF Constitution requires every worker and leader to remain committed to serving the people and protecting Naga interests. He urged municipal councillors and party representatives to follow party guidelines strictly and avoid internal misunderstandings.
The chief minister said maintaining unity within the organisation would be important as the party moves forward after the merger. NPF secretary general and MLA Achumbemü Kikün said all merger-related formalities had now been completed after the party received the official communication from the Election Commission of India. During the programme, the party formally introduced three candidates for the upcoming urban local body by-elections. Neichüu Kuotsü was named for Chümoukedima Town Ward No. 11, Shikavi Kiba for Atoizu Town Ward No. 9, and Aling Lotha for Wokha Town Ward No. 8. The candidates were administered the oath by NPF working president Pusazo Luruo.
