Communique from Neiphiu Rio on NDPP
Date : 02nd January 2018

Of late, there has been abounding speculation about my dealing with the newly floated regional party, the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party. In order to clear all misconceptions, I hereby clarify the following once and for all in the interest of public consumption.

1. When I was suspended from the NPF in 2015, some like-minded people approached me to form a new political party for which I gave my moral support. However, in view of the present reconciliation process on the suggestion of the Election Commission of India and the requests of various public leaders, I decided to resign from the post of President, NPF even though I was elected by a whopping majority on September 20th, 2017 at the General Convention at Dimapur under the Chief Ministership of Shri TR Zeliang and his group of MLAs. After tendering my resignation on 8th December, 2017, I had also extended my full support to the Presidentship of Dr. Shurhozelie Liezietsu and also withdrew the dispute case from the Election Commission of India on 10th December, 2017.

2. I started my political career from the Cock Party, the United Democratic Front in 1974 as Youth President. I also made sacrifices by stepping down from the Ministry in 1990 headed by Late Shri Vamuzo to accommodate fellow legislators. In 2002, I resigned from the Congress Ministry headed by the then Chief Minister Dr. SC Jamir and revived the present NPF Party by way of making numerous sacrifices and maximum contributions. With Almighty God’s blessings and the people’s support, I went on to become the Chief Minister of the NPF led DAN Government for 3 (Three) consecutive terms.

3. Now, in the course of this reconciliation process, my suspension from the NPF party was revoked on 14th December, 2017 to clear all misunderstandings and therefore, it is my natural choice to remain with the NPF to strengthen the party and serve the people.

Therefore, keeping these above-mentioned points in mind, I totally disassociate myself from the NDPP in every manner whatsoever. As a fledgling political party, I can only wish them well.

( NEIPHIU RIO )
MP Lok Sabha Nagaland