KOHIMA, MARCH 4 (MExN): The ruling NPF high command and senior Ministers have been huddled into closed-door marathon meetings over the last few days ‘finalising’ and ‘re-finalising’ the list of cabinet team to lead DAN III.
On Monday, three senior ministers: TR Zeliang, Kuzholuzo Nienu (Azo) and G. Kaito Aye along with Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio and top NPF leaders were engaged in hectic meetings to complete the list of 12 cabinet ministers. The meeting reportedly became strenuous over reconsideration of former Home Minister, Imkong L. Imchen’s entry into the cabinet.
According to reliable sources, the list of probable cabinet ministers including the Speaker, will include Neiphiu Rio, Imkong Imchen, TR Zeliang, Kiyanelie Peseyie, G. Kaito Aye, Kuzholuzo Nienu (Azo), Pangnyu Phom, CM Chang, EE Pangteang, Noke, Y Patton, P. Longon, and Merentoshi R. Jamir. While all other districts are represented in this likely list, no representative from Dimapur and Kiphire has been included. While Neiphiu Rio will retain the post of Chief Minister it is likely that TR Zeliang will be given Planning, Geology and Mining; G. Kaito Aye – Medical (H & FW); Kuzholuzo Neinu – Works & Housing, (Roads & Bridges, Housing, Mechanical Engineering) and Kiyanelie Peseyie – Home. However, the portfolios of Kaito and Kiyanelie are likely to be interchanged, sources said.
With the objective of accommodating others who could be left out or may not get plump portfolios this time, the party might reshuffle the portfolios after two and half years, sources added. The swearing-in of all the 59 elected MLAs of 12th Nagaland Legislative Assembly will be held at Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan, Kohima on Tuesday at 11 am after which the cabinet members will be given oath of secrecy by the Governor. This will be followed by the Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio administering oath to the Parliamentary Secretaries.
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