Rising People's Party Merges with Naga People's Front to Strengthen Naga Unity

Merger Announcement and Its Significance

Kohima, July 11: The Rising People's Party (RPP) officially merged with the ruling Naga People's Front (NPF) on Saturday.

Nagaland's Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasized that this merger aims to bolster Naga unity and reiterated that addressing the long-standing Naga political issue is the government's foremost priority.

During the event celebrating the merger, Rio, who also holds the position of NPF president, stated that the alliance between the two regional parties signifies more than just a political shift.

He remarked, "This represents the unification of people, ideas, experiences, and aspirations for the greater good of the Naga populace."

Rio noted that the current government in Nagaland, which operates without opposition, showcases the collective determination of all elected representatives to collaborate on resolving the Naga political dilemma.

He asserted, "The Naga political issue is at the forefront of the Naga People's Front and the PDA government's agenda," adding that the party will persist in fostering an environment conducive to a swift and enduring political resolution.

Recognizing that the Naga community has awaited a resolution for generations, the Chief Minister expressed that the goal remains an "inclusive, honorable, and acceptable" settlement that embodies the collective will of the people.

While acknowledging that immediate physical integration of Naga-populated regions across the Northeast may not be feasible at present, Rio encouraged the Naga people to pursue "emotional integration" by enhancing community ties and nurturing a shared identity.

He stated, "The aspiration of the Naga people has always been to unite as one family under a single administrative framework," emphasizing that although immediate physical integration may not be attainable, this aspiration should never be relinquished.

Rio also called upon Nagas in neighboring Manipur, where Assembly elections are approaching, to fortify the NPF and strive towards establishing a unified political platform that reflects Naga aspirations.

He remarked, "Politics should not solely revolve around differences and divisions; it should also focus on building bridges, fostering reconciliation, and instilling hope for future generations."

Reaffirming his government's commitment to development, Rio stated that peace and progress must go hand in hand. He highlighted the state's dedication to enhancing infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, education, employment, investment, entrepreneurship, and rural livelihoods, while ensuring increased participation of women and youth in development initiatives.

The formal announcement of the merger was made by NPF secretary general and Adviser Achumbemo Kikon, who welcomed the new RPP leaders and members. The oath was administered to the new entrants by NPF working president Pusazo Luruo.

The RPP was established on October 2, 2020, and gained recognition from the Election Commission of India in June 2021. Led by Joel Naga, the party aimed to present itself as a regional alternative focused on clean governance and electoral reforms.

However, it did not secure any seats in the 2023 Nagaland Assembly elections and currently lacks representation in the 60-member Assembly or in the state's urban local bodies.