Nagaland witnesses major political developments as NPF endorses Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu
Source: The Sangai Express
Dimapur, December 09 2017:
Just few months before the State assembly elections, Nagaland is witnessing major political developments as the ruling Naga People's Front (NPF) 'reconciled' by endorsing the leadership of Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu.
With the resignation of Neiphiu Rio as the President of the NPF faction led by him and TR Zeliang, the Dr Shurhozelie led NPF is the sole NPF now.
This is indeed a victory for Dr Shurhozelie who leadership was challenged by Neiphiu Rio and TR Zeliang in the past several months.
Given this scenario, the position of NPF is consolidated .
According to Neiphiu Rio, he had agreed to become the President of NPF after Zeliang "had misunderstandings and conflict" with the former Chief Minister and then NPF President Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu."
In a letter sent to TR Zeliang, Neiphiu Rio said, "I attended a meeting of Legislators at the State Banquet Hall wherein I was compelled to take up the responsibility of Interim President of the NPF.
Much against my wishes, the Honorable MLA s and yourself included, pressured me to accept the president-ship even though I had clearly voiced my reluctance to be elected as interim president.
However, since the whole House was unanimous that I be elected as interim president, I humbly accepted the imposed responsibility�"
Rio then added, "Now, you have led a signature campaign to go back to Dr.Shurhozelie and remove me as the President.
As stated, I took over the presidenship on the demand of the MLAs and party leaders under your leadership and your request.
Therefore, if you were of the opinion that I am no longer required, then it should have been informed to me and I would have willingly resigned, as I only took up the responsibility due to the request of you and your colleagues.
It was not necessary to carry out a signature campaign behind my back" .
Meanwhile, serious politicking is likely to witness in the next few days.
Everybody is now guessing as to what role Neiphiu Rio may play after his resignation as the President of NPF.
Neiphiu Rio accused TR Zeliang of carrying out signature campaign against his leadership .
The impact of the prevailing Nagaland situation is also bound to affect the Manipur State unit of NPF.
There are two NPF factions in Manipur.