The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) held its 6th General Convention at the Capital Cultural Hall, a landmark event where the party leadership affirmed its decision to merge with the Naga People’s Front (NPF), marking a pivotal moment in Nagaland’s political landscape.

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio applauded party workers for overcoming significant challenges and achieving remarkable successes. He emphasized that the day was not just a celebration of past achievements, but also of the “perseverance and unity” that propelled the party forward.

He credited the NDPP’s current strength—holding an absolute majority and running an opposition-less government—to the collective leadership from the president down to the booth-level workers. Rio paid special tribute to Working President Chingwang Konyak, describing him as a “matured, seasoned, and highly experienced leader” whose sacrificial role was instrumental in building the party.

He also expressed gratitude to Secretary General Abu Metha for his remarkable contributions and thanked all NDPP officials, legislators, and members for their “tireless efforts and steadfast loyalty,” which he called the “true driving force” behind the party.

Rio framed the merger as a historic return to the NPF, the 62-year-old party he described as the first regional and oldest party in the Northeast. He highlighted that the NPF, originally founded as the Democratic Party by A Kevichiisa on October 21, 1963, was his political alma mater.

“We are stepping into a historical political party, the NPF, it is a parent party of regional parties and my parent party, where I started my political career way back in 1974,” said Rio, marking his 51 years in public service. He stressed that the move was driven by a cause greater than personal legacy. “I’m not working or fighting for my own legacy, I’m working for the Nagas… we go to the parent party where their aims, their ideology, their focus to protect the Naga history, culture, traditions and customary laws are protected.”

He reaffirmed the strategic necessity of the NPF’s alliance with the BJP, the first of its kind in the Northeast, which continues to this day.

In his presidential address, President Chingwang Konyak outlined the history and journey of the NDPP. While he personally disclosed that he “was not in favour of NDPP Party merger with any other political party,” he firmly stated that he would not let his feelings override the majority decision.

“Let us rise above personal feelings and ambitions and remain dedicated to our collective goal – the progress and peace in Nagaland,” Konyak urged. “Let us together move forward in harmony and with shared determination, and take decision unanimously for the merger of the NDPP Party, in the larger interest of our people.”

Reflecting on the recent Lok Sabha election, Rio expressed hope that the merger would create a singular, powerful regional voice to better represent the people and more effectively address the long-pending Naga political issue.

“If political parties despite contesting elections against each other can unite in the interest of our people then surely others too can follow this path,” Rio declared. “Our message is crystal clear: Unity is the only way forward.”

He concluded with a powerful call to action, urging all members to work as one united family for the peace, progress, and prosperity of Nagaland.

“This is indeed a historic moment as we merge our strength and move forward as one,” Rio stated. “As we write a new chapter in the Naga political history of Nagaland, a chapter that embodies reconciliation, unity and collective strength, together we shall strive form a stronger and more prosperous future.”

The convention commenced with an invocation by Pastor Rev. Medonei-u Üsou of Midland Baptist Church, Kohima. A welcome address was delivered by Minister Metsubo Jamir, and the gathering was entertained by cultural performances from Azi Rudy, Vetho Rhakho, Kekhrieyie, and Mhaphruonuo. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Working President N. Bendang Jamir, following short speeches from leaders of the party’s various wings.