Suppression of Democracy Is Unacceptable: Sher Bahadur Deuba

Former President of the Nepali Congress, Sher Bahadur Deuba, has stated that protecting democratic values, freedom of expression, and political rights is the historical responsibility of the Nepali Congress.

Issuing a statement on the occasion of the Memorial Day of Jananayak BP Koirala, he noted that the path championed by BP—encompassing nationalism, democracy, socialism, reconciliation, and the supremacy of the people—remains the primary guiding light for Nepal's political journey today.

"His unwavering belief and vision regarding nationalism, democracy, and socialism, along with reconciliation and the supremacy of the people, continue to serve as the guide for our political journey today," Deuba said.

Highlighting that starting his political journey under the leadership of BP Koirala was the greatest fortune of his life, he expressed that democratic values, responsibility, and trust have guided his entire political career. He claimed that over a political career spanning more than six decades—despite imprisonment, bans, suppression, and difficult circumstances—his stance in favor of democracy, constitutionalism, and public rights never wavered.

"In my journey of over six decades—from an ordinary worker of the Nepali Congress to the party leadership—I had the opportunity to struggle against all forms of autocracy, authoritarianism, and anti-democratic forces," Deuba said. "Even amid imprisonment, bans, political suppression, and various difficult circumstances, my stance in favor of democracy, constitutionalism, and the rights of the people never changed. This is because my belief has always remained the same: there is no greater alternative than democracy, and there is no greater power than the rights of the people."

Expressing respect to the memory of BP, he extended best wishes to all Nepalis. Furthermore, he noted that the path shown by BP in favor of democratic values, national unity, and the supremacy of the people remains relevant and inspiring today.

Stating that even though he is abroad with his family for medical treatment, his focus remains continuously centered on the country, its people, and democracy, Deuba expressed serious concern over recent political developments in Nepal. He concluded by paying tribute to BP's memory and extending his best wishes to all Nepalese.