Strengthening the NPF: Pongener calls for unity and grassroots engagement

Naga People’s Front (NPF) President Apong Pongener has called for intensified efforts to strengthen the party at the grassroots level during his recent meetings in Peren and Dimapur districts.

At a gathering in Jalukie, Peren, Pongener reminded party workers that the NPF is the oldest regional party in the Northeast and the second oldest in India. He reassured them that, although the NPF currently has only two MLAs in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, its strength remains firmly rooted at the grassroots. “This is the time to strengthen the party,” he asserted, encouraging workers to launch an enrollment drive in the Tening and Peren constituencies and to identify capable and influential leaders. “If this is done, candidates will ultimately come,” he added.

Reflecting on his 53 years of service in the party, Pongener acknowledged its ups and downs but emphasized that the NPF continues to thrive because it is deeply rooted in the Naga political issue. He recalled the sacrifices made by party pioneers such as Kevichüsa Angami and Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu during times of political turmoil. He highlighted the party’s role in bringing about the ceasefire, registering with the Election Commission of India, and even boycotting elections in pursuit of an honorable, inclusive, and permanent Naga political solution.

Pongener further noted that while the party’s name has changed seven times over the years, its core motto, Fide Non Armis (By Faith, Not by Arms), remains unchanged. He pointed out that the NPF, formerly known as the Nagaland People’s Front, was renamed to accommodate Nagas in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, where the party currently has five MLAs.

At the NPF Dimapur Division meeting, Pongener reflected on his long service, saying, “Over fifty years of service—I cannot run away from responsibilities. In politics, you cannot afford to be small-hearted. Today may be the worst era for the party, but anything good can happen in politics if we work hard and strengthen the organization.” He also praised the leadership of the party’s two MLAs—Achumbemo Kikon, who is also the NPF Secretary General, and Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu—highlighting their dynamism and wisdom. Additionally, Pongener stressed the importance of developing party infrastructure. “NPF has 14 divisions in the state, but unfortunately, only nine have offices. We must establish proper infrastructure, as it is the foundation of the party,” he stated.

Speaking at the Dimapur Division meeting, Achumbemo Kikon, MLA and NPF Secretary General, informed party workers that the NPF touring team has so far covered Kohoboto, Tseminyu, Kohima, Peren, and Dimapur, and will soon cover all divisions across the state. He urged members to strengthen the party across all divisions and thereafter focus on the grassroots. Commenting on performance and office infrastructure, he noted that the Kohima and Dimapur divisions are better off compared to others.

Kikon also shared that he had opposed the idea of One Nation, One Election during the state assembly, reaffirming the NPF’s stance. “The NPF is strong and loved by the people because of its ideology,” he said. Addressing concerns about the NPF’s support for the opposition-less government in Nagaland, he clarified that the party remains committed to a peaceful and honorable Naga political settlement.

Reminding party workers that under the Dimapur Division, the BJP has two MLAs and the NDPP has three MLAs, Kikon encouraged them to reorganize, inspire, and reach out at the grassroots level.

Divisional presidents of Kohima, Peren, and Dimapur, along with senior leaders accompanying the touring team, also addressed the meetings, reinforcing the message of party unity and strengthening its base.

MT