NPP Kohima condemns MLAs’ ‘defection’ to NPF

DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 12 (MExN): The National People’s Party (NPP), Kohima District Unit, has condemned the defection of its MLAs to the Naga People’s Front (NPF), describing the move as “political suicide and a trap.”In a press statement issued by its district president, Dr Keviseto Kintso, the unit alleged that the defections amounted to political poaching orchestrated by the Neiphiu Rio-led government. It termed the move “undemocratic, unethical” and an attempt to demonstrate political strength to the BJP leadership at the Centre.The unit alleged that poaching of NPP councillors and MLAs through false promises had become habitual under the Rio government, adding that such practices were “unfortunate and against democratic principles.”The district unit, however, maintained that the defections would not affect the morale of its grassroots workers or weaken the party’s position in Kohima.According to the statement, the District Executive unanimously resolved at a meeting to reinforce its commitment to party principles, citing the public’s desire for a change in the present system.Reaffirming its pan-Northeast vision, the NPP expressed confidence in its prospects across the region, particularly in Nagaland. “The NPP is a people-centric party. Such defections cannot weaken our resolve. We will come back stronger in the entire Northeast and especially in Nagaland,” the statement added.