Nagaland Chief Minister and Naga People’s Front (NPF) president Neiphiu Rio on Wednesday urged party leaders and workers to prioritise public service over the pursuit of power and work towards an honourable, inclusive and acceptable solution to the Naga political issue.
Addressing the party’s 64th Foundation Day celebration at Capital Cultural Hall, Rio called for unity, accountability and stronger grassroots engagement, stressing that no individual was bigger than the organisation and that party members must stand by the people beyond election periods.
On the Naga political issue, Rio urged all negotiating parties to demonstrate sincerity and accommodate differing views to reach a settlement. He said the NPF was not a negotiating party but would continue to facilitate efforts to advance the peace process.
Reflecting on the party’s 64-year journey, Rio said it had weathered electoral defeats, internal divisions and challenges to its existence. He credited past leaders and grassroots workers for sustaining the organisation and urged the present generation to uphold its founding principles. He also welcomed recent entrants and called for greater participation by women and young people in party affairs.
Rio highlighted entrepreneurship, self-employment, skill development and rural livelihoods as priorities, alongside initiatives in healthcare, life insurance, recruitment reform, medical education and investment promotion. He stressed the need to adapt to changing economic and technological realities while ensuring development reached all sections of society.
Expressing concern over the situation in Manipur, he conveyed solidarity with those affected by violence, displacement and loss of life, and called for reconciliation, restored trust and lasting peace. Reflecting on his political career spanning more than five decades, Rio urged party members to renew their commitment to public service and the NPF’s motto, “Fide, non Armis” — “By Faith, Not Arms”.
Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang, in a written message, expressed confidence in the party’s continued growth under Rio’s leadership and called for inclusive development, peace and public welfare. He also thanked party members for supporting his family following the loss of his son.
Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister CL John said the NPF, founded in 1963, had overcome several challenges and regained strength under Rio’s leadership following its setback in the 2023 Assembly elections. He said the joining of 32 MLAs had strengthened the party and called for unity among Naga tribes, national workers and denominations. He also thanked the government for passing the bill concerning the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) demand and the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA), urging people to safeguard the 40 allocated Assembly seats.
Rural Development Minister Metsübo Jamir recalled the sacrifices of the party’s founders and described the NPF as a national party representing the Nagas. He said the opposition-less government had been formed to pursue solutions to issues confronting the people.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister KG Kenye reaffirmed the party’s commitment to peace, non-violence and an amicable settlement of the Naga political issue, while Minister G Kaito Aye urged workers to reach out to people ahead of the next Assembly election and prioritise public welfare.
Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho called for peace, unity and constructive dialogue to address the crisis in Manipur. He said the NPF had strengthened its presence in the state despite initial opposition and continued to promote social, cultural and emotional ties among Naga communities in Nagaland and Manipur.
The programme was chaired by NPF working president H Chuba Chang. Party leaders delivered addresses, recalled the organisation’s history and paid tribute to its founding fathers.
