Contrary to the notice issued by returning officer of the National People’s Party (NPP), Dr Ph Jilasana Sharma declaring that Thangminlien Kipgen has been duly elected as state party president uncontested, NPP national president Conrad K Sangma has appointed N Kayisii as the interim president.

Sangma said in an order issued on Monday, “In exercise of the powers conferred on me as president of the National People’s Party (NPP) under Article 35 of the constitution of the NPP. I am pleased to appoint Kayisii as interim president of the NPP, Manipur state unit. Kayisii shall exercise the powers of the state president in accordance with the constitution of the party and ensure smooth conduct of internal elections of the party in consultation with the central election authority within a time bound manner”.

Sangma's intervention, however, has raised questions on the possible rift within the party for leadership in the Manipur unit.