Kohima, July 11: The Rising People’s Party (RPP) officially merged with the Naga People’s Front (NPF) during a program at the party’s Central Headquarters in Kohima on Friday, with NPF President and Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio describing the development as a significant moment in Naga political history.
Former RPP president Joel Naga announced the merger, while several RPP leaders were inducted into key NPF positions, including Joel Naga and Vitho Zao as Vice Presidents (COB), Amai Chingkhu as General Secretary (COB), Likhro Kreo as Secretary (COB), and Zhokhoi Chuzho as Vice President of the Central Youth Wing.
Addressing the gathering, Rio said the merger symbolised the coming together of people and ideas for the greater interest of the Naga people. Stressing the need for unity, he reiterated the NPF’s commitment to an early and honourable resolution of the Indo-Naga political issue, while also focusing on development, peace, and preserving Naga identity.
Rio also urged Nagas across Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Myanmar to strengthen emotional unity and invited more people, particularly from Manipur ahead of the Assembly elections, to join the NPF as a common platform for collective progress.
