The summing-up programme of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) Central Team Tour was held today, July 17, 2025 at Bhandari Town with Achumbemo Kikon, MLA, Apong Pongener, President, key party leaders and supporters from across the region.
In his speech, Achumbemo Kikon, MLA and Secretary General, emphasised the inescapable role of politics in daily life. “Everything is determined by politics. Even if you’re not interested in politics, politics is interested in you,” he remarked, urging people to be politically conscious and to elect capable leaders who will genuinely serve the community.
Kikon underscored the historical resilience of the Nagas, who have long resisted both British colonialism and Indian administrative control. He affirmed that only a regional party like the NPF can truly uphold and defend the distinct identity, faith, and interests of the Naga people.
While acknowledging that the 40 Bhandari Constituency is still developing, he praised its strong mindset and potential to produce effective leaders.
Referring to the division of Naga-inhabited areas across Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, and Myanmar, Kikon described these separations as “artificial boundaries” imposed without the consent of the Naga people. He reiterated the NPF’s firm stance against such partition and its ongoing commitment to resolving border-related issues.
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On the party’s role within the Opposition-less government in Nagaland, Kikon clarified that with only two MLAs, the NPF did not qualify to claim the position of Leader of Opposition. Nonetheless, the party chose to support the government in the spirit of unity and to strengthen the Naga peace process. He stressed that this decision did not entail any compromise on Naga identity, but rather served as a message of unity to underground groups and civil society organisations.
Highlighting the NPF’s regional reach, Kikon pointed out its continued presence in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, where it has five MLAs. He criticised the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur and called for the restoration of democratic governance. Reflecting on the party’s legacy, he noted that the NPF has produced seven Chief Ministers over the course of fourteen assembly elections and urged supporters to remain steadfast. “Let us return to the NPF for the greater good of our people,” he concluded.
Without peace, there can be no development
Apong Pongener, President, NPF also addressed the gathering, stating that the party, now in its 62nd year, is the second-oldest regional party in India and the oldest in the Northeast. He reaffirmed that the NPF was founded with the purpose of establishing lasting peace in Nagaland—not through violence, but through faith.
“Without peace, there can be no development,” he said, asserting that the NPF remains the only Naga party genuinely invested in the welfare of its people. Pongener reflected on the sacrifices made by the party in the past, especially the peace initiative of 1964 and the decision to abstain from the 1998 elections as a gesture towards reconciliation. He called upon Nagas across all regions to unite under the NPF banner and work collectively for peace and progress.
Despite the party currently having only two MLAs in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Pongener expressed confidence in their strength and capability, saying, “These two are as effective as ten.” He urged the public to re-elect them, believing they possess the calibre to reach even greater heights.
He also raised concerns about the plight of the Khiamniungan community in Pangsha, where 183 villages lie within Myanmar and 46 in India. He assured the gathering of the party’s commitment to ensuring the safety and rights of the people in those areas.
The programme was chaired by Meribemo Kinghen, President of NPF Wokha Division. The welcome address was delivered by Tsumongo Ovung, while Nyamo Odyuo, President of the 40 Bhandari Assembly Constituency, proposed the vote of thanks.
