Pokhara: Chief Minister of Gandaki Province, Surendra Raj Pandey, has highlighted the necessity of reinforcing social unity and harmony as the nation seeks a new direction. Issuing a statement, Pandey stressed that these are the unique attributes of Nepali society and urged their strengthening in the current context.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Chief Minister expressed his belief that the country could overcome the existing challenges through restraint, dialogues, and unity. Pandey conveyed his sorrow over the human casualties and the extensive destruction of public and private property during the Zen Z protests on September 8 and 9. He paid tributes to those who lost their lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families, also wishing for a speedy recovery of the injured.
Chief Minister Pandey voiced concern over the excessive force used during the September protests, which resulted in significant casualties and led to planned incidents of arson and vandalism, shocking the nation. He called for cooperation from political parties, civil society, and the media to foster dialogue and unity in resolving these issues.
Recognizing the aspirations and sentiments of the youth, Pandey emphasized the need for long-term solutions through constitutional and democratic processes, while avoiding constitutional voids. He also advocated for the establishment of a high-level commission to conduct an impartial investigation into the excessive force used on September 8 and the subsequent incidents.