Biratnagar: Nepali Congress (NC) General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa reaffirmed the party’s role as a responsible force in uniting all castes and ethnicities across Nepal. Speaking at an interaction program on ‘Contribution of Youth in Nation-Building and Fact-Based Publicity Campaign’, organized by the NC Information, Communication, and Publicity Department, Thapa emphasized the party’s commitment to inclusivity and national unity.

Thapa stated that the NC, as the largest national party, has consistently worked to protect the identity and dignity of all communities while addressing Nepal’s pressing issues with a long-term vision rather than short-term populism.

Looking ahead to the 2084 BS elections, he urged party cadres to engage with the public and highlight the achievements of the NC-led government over the past three years. He also pointed to economic reforms, crediting the NC government (2048-2051 BS) for privatizing loss-making state-run industries, which he claimed helped stimulate circular economic activities.

Meanwhile, Assistant General Secretary Bhishmaraj Angdambe called for the formation of a ministry-level dialogue committee to address ongoing issues in Pathibhara, while Department Coordinator Min Biswokarma encouraged cadres to be well-informed and tech-savvy to counter misinformation.

The event featured presentations by Hari Bahadur Thapa, Chief Editor of Bahrakharionline, and Jagat Nepal, Head of Journalism at Ratna Rajya Campus. It was attended by NC central members, district committee presidents from 14 districts, and numerous party leaders and cadres.

Democracy Has No Alternative 
 General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa has asserted that Nepali citizens have not sought an alternative to democracy, emphasizing that dissatisfaction lies with governance, not the system itself.

Speaking to the media at Biratnagar Airport, Thapa criticized those who once tolerated dictatorship and anarchic rule, stating that Nepal’s democratic structure ensures freedom of speech and political participation for all, including the former monarch.

"The beauty of democracy is that even the ex-monarch has space to express his views as a citizen," Thapa said, recalling how political leaders, including himself, were imprisoned for their opinions during the monarchy’s absolute rule. He assured that democracy does not operate on repression, saying, "We are not going to apprehend or silence him for speaking his mind."

Thapa acknowledged the public’s frustration with the government’s performance but argued that change should come through the ballot, not through questioning the system itself. He urged political leaders and party workers to prioritize public welfare over factionalism.

In response to questions about recent ordinances, Thapa revealed that Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is in discussions with ruling parties and expects a political understanding within a few days.

Regarding the NC General Convention, he confirmed that preparations have started and will be completed within the party’s constitutional deadline.