Advisor Zhaleo Rio along with MLA Moatoshi Longkumer and MLA Azheto Zhimomi during the felicitation programme held in Chümoukedima on June 8. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | June 8
The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), Dimapur Region organised a felicitation programme for the two “former NPF MLAs,” Moatoshi Longkumer and Azheto Zhimomi, including party functionaries, supporters and well wishers, into the party fold at Chümoukedima Town Council hall on June 8.
During the programme, Longkumer expressed that him joining the party will definitely strengthen the NDPP party along with the leadership of the Chief Minister. While assuring them that he and the other former-NPF MLAs will work towards strengthening the party leadership. “I want to ensure the pioneers of the party not to have apprehensions at us joining the party. We are not here to create problems for the party but we are here for the greater glory of the party,” he said.
Zhimomi cited that, “If you cannot be loyal to the candidate or the party leader then there is no point in staying within the party.” He noted that as the NDPP utilised the spirit of accommodation, and had worked towards finding a solution to the Naga peace process, him and his other party workers decided to switch their allegiances.
“We came not to divide the party but to strengthen it. Election is around the corner and as I have faith in the leadership of the Rio-led government, I am certain that we will form the government again,” he asserted.
NDPP member and Advisor Sericulture, Excise & Minority Affairs, Zhaleo Rio stated that the merger, which took place on April 29 with 21 NPF MLAs defecting to the NDPP, is a “proud moment for us and we should be thankful to God as it is for the good of the Naga people.”
He echoed the sentiments of other party members about the need to have a strong regional party for the interests of the Naga people. “Which is why the merger took place,” he said. Besides, he also asserted that it was for a good cause such as for the Indo-Naga political issue and finding a solution around it.
Zhaleo stressed on the need for the party workers to discuss, deliberate about issues. Advocating for strengthening the party from the AC level-to regional-to state level, he said, “Let us make a commitment to remain true to the principles of our party.”
The advisor also mentioned the importance of Dimapur region for the NDPP and therefore, emphasized the need towards retaining and winning all the seats in the three constituencies during the upcoming state assembly elections.
