Dr Neiphiu Rio with Chingwang Konyak and Apong Pongner during NPF General Convention in Kohima on October 21. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | October 21
Naga People’s Front (NPF) outgoing president Apong Pongener welcomed Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, along with his legislature colleagues and former NDPP president Chingwang Konyak, into the party fold.
In his last presidential address during the NPF General Convention cum 63rd Foundation Day at Indira Gandhi Stadium Kohima on October 21, Pongener welcomed the leaders and their esteemed office bearers to the party.
“Together, we fortify a singular, robust regional political party that champions the aspirations of Nagaland and its neighbouring states for the upliftment of all Nagas, the tribals of Northeast India, and their posterity,” Pongener said.
He welcomed everyone to the “historic convergence” and wished them a stay “brimming with comfort, camaraderie and renewed purpose.”
Pongener declared his unwavering support for homecoming of Dr Rio, fellow legislators, party workers, and new members alike. “This Party embodies the very soul and identity of the Nagas,” he said and extended his unreserved blessings and full-hearted endorsement to Dr Rio as “the shoulders his duties and responsibilities in selfless service to humanity.”
Drawing from our shared history of close collaboration, I am confident that, henceforth, he will surpass even his past achievements as the chief architect of our State's policies, Pongener said and wished him boundless success in all his future endeavours.
He called upon Dr Rio and all of the NPF leaders and workers to lead with innovation and integrity, turning obstacles into opportunities that elevate the people. “Stating that NPF is not merely a political entity but a profound movement for the Nagas,” he said, “Today, we stand proud as members of this venerable Naga Regional political party.” He called upon the NPF party to expand “our reach, engage our communities, and transform this movement into an unstoppable wave of progress.”
Our steadfast stance on resolving the Indo-Naga political issue and fostering unbreakable Naga brotherhood remains as vital today as ever, Pongener said adding “No other party matches our resolve in championing these causes.”
“It is imperative that we reclaim and amplify our regionalist narrative, positioning the NPF as the unassailable guardian of Naga interests-standing resolute against any subservience to external forces that dilute our nationalism,” he said.
Pongener also challenged the leaders and members alike to “Harness this heritage to inspire action, confront complacency, and boldly assert our sovereignty in every forum.”
