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Nagaland: NPF Formally Urges Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to Return and Lead Party
Sep 07, 2025In a significant political development in Nagaland, the Naga People’s Front (NPF), the state’s oldest regional political party, has formally appealed to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to return to the party and assume its leadership. The resolution was unanimously adopted during a meeting of the party’s Central Executive Council (CEC) held on Saturday in Kohima.
Addressing the media after the meeting, NPF Secretary General and MLA Achumbemo Kikon confirmed that the CEC had passed a special resolution inviting Rio back to the party fold. Kikon stated that Rio continues to be regarded as an "integral part" of the NPF, and his return would not only strengthen the party but also send a positive message to the people of Nagaland.
“We believe that his leadership is crucial for the unity and progress of the Naga people. The NPF was built on the foundations of regional aspirations, and we see Mr. Rio as someone who can take that legacy forward,” said Kikon.
In a bold gesture, NPF President Apong Pongener reiterated his earlier statement, offering to step down from his post should Rio agree to return. Pongener assured full support for Rio to lead the party and work towards forming an NPF-led government in Nagaland.
This move comes amid growing speculation of a possible merger between the ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), currently led by Rio, and the NPF. While no formal talks have been confirmed, political observers believe the NPF's appeal may be a strategic step toward consolidating regional political forces.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who was once a towering figure within the NPF, parted ways with the party in 2017 to join the newly formed NDPP. Under his leadership, the NDPP went on to form the government in Nagaland in alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The NDPP currently holds 32 seats in the 60-member Nagaland Legislative Assembly, while the NPF has been reduced to just two MLAs.
The NPF’s resolution also extended an invitation to all sitting and former legislators, including the state’s two Members of Parliament and 60 MLAs, to unite under the NPF banner for the greater interest of the Naga people.
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