Neiphiu Rio's Triumphant Return: Navigating Political Waters in Nagaland

Neiphiu Rio has been elected as the president of the Naga People's Front (NPF), marking a significant return to the party he once led before forming the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP). The announcement came during the NPF General Convention, aligning with the party's 63rd foundation day celebrations.

This political development follows an appeal by the NPF on September 6, encouraging Rio to rejoin the party he helped establish. The NDPP deliberated this proposal on September 12, and the merger was formally approved at its general convention on October 18, leading to Rio's appointment as the NPF's leader on the same day.

In his acceptance speech, Rio emphasized the merger as a step towards a shared vision and unity for an inclusive political future in Nagaland. He acknowledged NDPP's Chingwang Konyak and former NPF president Apong Pongener for facilitating the seamless merger, describing it as a historic milestone. Rio stressed unity and addressing the Naga political issue as key priorities, while urging party members to adapt to technological advancements.