Kathmandu: Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, senior advocate, and democratic leader Daman Nath Dhungana passed away today at the age of 83. He died at Baneshwor-based Frontline Hospital at 1:30 PM while undergoing treatment for liver-related complications, confirmed his private secretary, Dr. Rudra Sharma.

Dhungana was elected to the House of Representatives from Kathmandu Constituency-2 during the 1992 general elections representing the Nepali Congress. He served as Speaker from 1992 to 1995, playing a pivotal role in Nepal's democratic transition and human rights movement. He also mediated peace negotiations between the then-armed Maoist rebels and the government, contributing significantly to Nepal's peace process in 2006.

President Ramchandra Paudel, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, and Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba expressed their condolences, highlighting Dhungana’s contribution to democracy, human rights, and parliamentary practices.

President Paudel stated, "I will always remember Dhungana's dedication to the democratic movement." Prime Minister Oli noted, "His passing is a loss to Nepal’s legal and political fraternity." President Deuba described him as "a devoted politician and a long-time friend who significantly shaped the nation's democratic progress."

Dhungana's mortal remains are at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH), with his cremation scheduled for tomorrow at Pashupati Aryaghat. He is survived by his spouse, a daughter, and two sons.