Ideal politics cannot be defined or can we ? There goes an argument often in theory that efficiency in governance and economic growth and development can boost prospects of the political protagonists at play.
But to find such a thing on ground translating into reality is yet to be experienced in full steam. So, we have other elements playing in politics. The use of muscle power, abuse of money power, systematic play up of emotive issues - caste, religious polarisation etc etc.
Politicians are also smart enough. Even if they know they have failed as individuals or a group or even the party he/she represents - they may take the plea that media criticism, opposition Neta's outburst and opinion polls are "wrong" thing - prejudiced etc etc.
Lately, NPF leader from remote urban district Phek in Nagaland -Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu made certain observations and these again deserve to be scrutinised in the right spirit. He has been winning election repeatedly and hence it would be erroneous on the part of a journalist sitting in Delhi to tag him as a non-performer or so.
Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu entered politics with the right party - the regional platform NPF - and in the right time --- 2003.
Since then in last 23 years - he has won from the constituency as many as five times. The marginalisation of Congress ended the political graph of veteran Zachilo Vadeo as many as three times (hat-trick in cricket language) in 1989, 1993 and 1998.
Of course 1998 polls was a cakewalk with over 50 other Congressman because regional parties NCP, NDM, JD-U and even BJP had boycotted the polls. For starters - if you do not know ... why?
The best is to reflect on the career graph of S C Jamir and Thuingaleng Muivah. As a common entity between the two - my 'favourite chief minister' and Azo's new leader and party supremo Neiphiu Rio can also provide a detailed analysis.
Of course all these were before the era of Bolera-politics and also without much 'taxation or extortion' - as they put it. Of course - the decade of nineties was also an era of much simpler world - we had a lot of Love Letters circulating. This was different kind of love missives and youngsters should not start imaging their elders as products of naughty mischievous era.
Now let us focus what Azo has said ---- Stating that the legacy “we leave behind is more important than our present status and position" .... the former Minister Azo Nienu said, -- “Therefore, we must create a legacy that will be loved, remembered and cherished forever.”
Theoretically -- as eloquently put by a British writer ... "A midterm poll measures how much voters like the government. A general election asks whether the opposition is trusted to take over.
It isn’t the same question."
Or is it ? In Nagaland polls were held in 2023 and the BJP graciously ensured that Mr Rio comes back to power and hence in a one-sided seat adjustments pact 40 seats were handed over on a platter to the NDPP.
The same NDPP has now merged with the NPF -- whose protagonist Azo Nienu was himself working hard for the two entities to come together. The merger came in October 2025. Left to Azo -- he would have given the 'Cock' on a platter to Rio much earlier.
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Cock and Juice - Rio relishing !!
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Thanks to the then NPF boss Shurhozelie's veto-power. He declined opportunity for Azo to take over as the NPF president and Rio eventually getting the ownership was delayed for sometime. Destinty has come to Rio's side and hence he is heading a party that was his original but he had deserted to embrace the Congress party's greater spirit of Indian nationalism.
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| A thoughtful Azo Nienu |
Now left to himself - Azo must be a worried man. There are 40-50 others in the state assembly and numerous others outside. Can they remain politically relevant by 2028 -- when next polls are due.
One interpretation that signing of Naga peace pact would throw up a totally new breed of Netas in Nagaland is now seemingly fictional.
Firstly - the final Solution pact is not coming sooner. Secondly - the BJP high command must have done a 'match fixing' politics with Rio too that he would be chief minister till he wishes.
The Lotus party has another such story from Kolkata - the protagonist here is Mamata Banerjee. Even as the West Bengal chief minister violated law and prevented a central probe agency do their job - the Govt of 'Moditva' (56 inch chest) has given a cakewalk to her.
Those of you believe - the cycle of 'rebirth' -- must pray that the next political life should be that of Narendra Modi -- (to be blessed with Rahul Gandhi as rival) and of course Mr Rio and Madam Mamata -- otherwise quite popular also in Bangladesh.
But what should Azo and the likes of Dr A Sukhato and many others do in the meantime?
Nagaland politics is just not sports.
It's also business - selling-buying ... punctuated with cash Boleros and of course guns and goons in play --- depending on the season.
Azo is taking almost a role of a neighbourhood pastor.
As Christian, one should not choose convenience over obedience, enthusiasm over reverence, or favouritism and nepotism over rights, he said.
“Our intentions should be clear on what is right and deliver justice to the people we serve.”
Graciously - we must appreciate what he has said.
Azo also pointed out that the status and position "we hold today will end anytime ... but our legacy will live on forever even after our death”.
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| Blogger as 'story teller and listener' with rural Nagas |
But Azo's statements would leave many Nagas reflecting back on their deeds and fate. "Eneka kile koise ho".
As of now everyone believes -- the BJP will play second fiddle in Nagaland.
Thus, Rio's and Azo's party NPF would 'supply' chief minister(s).
Any kind of social or political reform in Nagaland politics is out of question.
Of course - my Naga friends - politicians and others endorse the view that Politics will follow Precedent. They also believe that above strong and familiar currents ... there may be some volatility on the surface. And they would fade away.
For politicians; it is a great idea that the Naga voters will always turn to Netas for 'gaari bhara or Christmas gift'.
Till now many leaders have kept good accountants and they do not run out of money.
ends
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