MLA Achumbemo Kikon addressing the gathering during the summing up programme of NPF central team tour. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Bhandari | July 17
The Naga People’s Front (NPF) Central Team concluded its tour with a summing-up programme at Bhandari town on Thursday, calling for unity and reaffirming its commitment to the rights and welfare of the Naga people.
Addressing party workers and supporters, NPF Secretary General and MLA Achumbemo Kikon emphasised the need for capable and committed leadership. “Even if you are not interested in politics, politics is interested in you,” Kikon said, urging voters to elect representatives dedicated to serving the people with integrity.
Highlighting the party’s regional identity, Kikon said only a party like the NPF could safeguard the unique identity, faith, and interests of the Naga people. He underscored the importance of completing infrastructure projects and addressing border concerns, stating that Naga populations spread across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Myanmar continue to face challenges due to what he termed “artificial boundaries.”
On the Opposition-less government in Nagaland, Kikon clarified that although the NPF did not qualify to claim the position of Leader of the Opposition, with only two MLAs, the party chose to support the government in the interest of Naga unity and the peace process. “Joining the Opposition-less alliance does not mean compromising on Naga identity,” he said.
Kikon also criticised the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur, calling for its withdrawal and the restoration of an elected government.
NPF President Apong Pongener, addressing the gathering, said the NPF, now 62 years old, is the second-oldest regional party in India and the oldest in Northeast India. He said the party was founded with the vision of peace in Nagaland, not violence. “Without peace, there can be no development,” he added.
He recalled the NPF’s role in the 1964 peace initiative and its decision to abstain from the 1998 elections as a goodwill gesture, stating that the party had always prioritised the people’s welfare over material gains.
Pongener urged Naga communities across all regions to unite under one banner and work collectively for progress. Referring to the Khiamniungan community in the Pangsha area, he highlighted the challenges faced by villages divided between Myanmar and India, reaffirming the NPF’s commitment to safeguarding their rights and safety.
Short speeches were also delivered by Süpoyi Vezhu, President, Youth Wing, Yanhola, President, Women Wing, Bishnu Bhattacharjee, President, Minority Wing, H. Zungkum Chang, General Secretary, Toniho Sheqi, Vice President, Lanukaba, Vice President, Khongjah Honyak, Senior Vice President, Kruzakie Melio, Treasurer, Pousazo Luruo, Working President.
The programme was chaired by Meribemo Kinghen, President of NPF Wokha Division. A welcome address was delivered by Tsumongo Ovung, while Nyamo Odyuo, President of the 40 Bhandari Assembly Constituency, offered the vote of thanks.
