Kikon reaffirms party’s unchanging stand on Naga issue; calls NDPP–NPF merger a ‘historic unification’
Naga People’s Front (NPF) Secretary General and MLA Achumbemo Kikon on Friday sent a clear message that the party’s participation in power will never come before the Naga political issue, asserting that the NPF is ready to step down “at any moment” once an honorable and acceptable solution is achieved, PTI reported.
Speaking at the oath-taking ceremony of newly appointed office bearers, central executive council members, and frontals of the NPF, Kikon reaffirmed that the party’s position “has never wavered” and that it remains guided by the aspirations of the Naga people, not political convenience.
“We are ready to sacrifice our positions and step down any time for an honorable solution that brings lasting peace and unity among the Nagas,” Kikon was quoted by PTI, describing the party’s resolve as rooted in conviction rather than power.
Describing the recent NPF–NDPP merger as a “historic unification of all like-minded Nagas,” Kikon said it was a step beyond party lines – a movement toward solidarity and collective progress.
“This merger symbolises the coming together of Naga brothers and sisters who have long worked for the same cause under different banners,” he said.
Kikon also lauded Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for his “wisdom, courage, and magnanimity” in steering the unification.
He revealed that the NPF had faced procedural hurdles while submitting merger documents to the Election Commission of India due to the Bihar elections but insisted on completing the process the same day.
“We had to fight even in Delhi to make our voice heard. The NPF is not just a name – it is a spirit that refuses to be silenced,” he added.
Calling on members to uphold discipline and inner-party democracy, Kikon reminded them that NPF’s motto, ”Fide Non Armis” (By faith, not by arms), defines its politics.
“Once we have taken a decision collectively, we must stand by it together. There is no room for personal ego or factionalism in this family,” he stated.
He cautioned that politics in Nagaland must never be reduced to the pursuit of power or wealth. “We must remember that NPF is not a party born out of money or muscle, but out of faith, vision, and the Naga people’s trust,” he said.
He urged the newly sworn-in members to carry the party’s message to the grassroots. “You are the backbone of this movement. The future of the NPF lies in your dedication, honesty, and ability to connect with the people,” Kikon said, adding that the party’s strength “lies not in numbers but in conviction.”
“We are a small party by size, but we carry a big responsibility — to speak for all Nagas with one voice,” he asserted.
NPF working presidents Ahovi Zhimomi and H Chuiba Chang also exhorted the party leaders to remain firm on the party principles and ideals and to work cohesively towards the Naga people in general.
The ceremony marked the formal induction of new office bearers following the official NPF–NDPP merger on October 21. Senior leaders, legislators, and representatives from the NPF frontal organisations attended the event.
Over 400 functionaries have been appointed to different posts, including the COC, CEC, Core Committee, Women & Youth wings, Farmers & Minority Cells of the second-oldest regional party in the country after DMK of Tamil Nadu.
The oath was administered by working president Pusazo Luruo while former state chaplain Rev Yamyep Konyak offered prayers.
(Source: PTI)
