Kohima, March 9: Merely four days after taking oath of office, Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio is ready to expand his ministry. Come tomorrow, Rio hopes to silence dissenters in the fledgling Democratic Alliance of Nagaland through the tried and tested tactic of giving them ministerial berths. However, it will be a surprise if he gifts the finance portfolio to a BJP member.
Apart from inducting new ministers, Rio is likely to elevate some ministers of state to Cabinet rank. At least two junior ministers — Vatsu Meru of the Nagaland People’s Front (NPF) and Imtilemba Sangtam of the BJP — are tipped for a promotion.
The expansion may also see the MLA from Meluri constituency in Phek district make it to a ministry for the first time in nearly 40 years.
Rio has already accommodated 28 of 33 members of the ruling Democratic Alliance of Nagaland coalition in his ministry.
However, allocation of portfolios remains a crucial challenge before the fledgling chief minister.
Till filling of this report, the coalition partners failed to arrive at an agreement over key portfolios. Some partners felt the NPF was not “accommodating” and trying to keep all “plump posts” for party members.
BJP sources the Rio’s party had rejected its demand for the finance ministry for its legislator, Tiameren Aier. The crucial portfolio may go to K. Therie, an aide of Rio. Therie, along with the chief minister, had played a pivotal role in forming the NPF after quitting the erstwhile Jamir ministry. Janata Dal (United) leader Huska Sumi is another contender for the post.
Interestingly, few legislators appear willing to accept the home department and the post of Speaker. The BJP, which was offered home, insisted on finance, while no coalition partners were willing to take up the post of Speaker. Political observers here feel that the Speaker’s chair would be the most important position in this fractured Assembly.
The NPF is likely to propose the name of a relatively low-profile party legislator Kiyanilie Peseye, from the Western Angami seat, for the post. The first sitting of the 10th Nagaland Assembly is expected on March 25.
NPF advisor Shurhozelie Angami said disgruntled legislators would fall in line in the interests of the coalition.
“I don’t think this government will be unstable. There are a few elders in the coalition who everyone respects and listen to,” he said.