Kathmandu: Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba, emerging publicly after more than a month since a Gen-Z protest, has appointed Vice President Purna Bahadur Khadka as the Acting President of the party. This decision was made on Tuesday, following an incident where Deuba was attacked and seriously injured by protesters at his residence in Budhanilakantha on September 9.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Deuba had been hospitalized and subsequently moved to a relative’s home in Lalitpur for recovery. During a central committee meeting, Deuba officially announced Khadka’s appointment, expressing confidence that Khadka would work towards the welfare of the party. Some leaders within the party, including General Secretaries, have been urging the leadership to address the demands of the Gen-Z protesters and restructure the party organization. Deuba, however, cited his health as the reason for temporarily stepping aside.
In a written statement read at the party office in Lalitpur, Deuba addressed the issue of leadership transition, stating his readiness to hand over leadership at the party’s upcoming 15th general convention. He emphasized the necessity for dialogue and cooperation among democratic parties to maintain unity and stability. Deuba also highlighted the risks facing the constitution, following what he described as the unconstitutional dissolution of the House of Representatives.
Deuba paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the Gen-Z protest, offering condolences to the families and wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. He asserted that the protest had been infiltrated, leading to violence and loss of life, and called for a fair investigation to hold those responsible accountable. Furthermore, Deuba appreciated President Paudel’s role in averting a national crisis and underscored the need to address the Gen-Z demands for good governance and freedom of expression.
Looking ahead, Deuba emphasized the importance of a conducive environment for the elections scheduled for March 5, urging the government to facilitate free and fair elections. He criticized the government’s lack of dialogue with political parties and reiterated the historical role of the Nepali Congress in resolving national crises. Reflecting on his political career, Deuba expressed pride in his contributions to democracy, including initiatives like freeing bonded laborers and land reform.
Concluding his address, Deuba condemned the coordinated attacks and misinformation aimed at tarnishing his image following the protest, reaffirming his commitment to the party and the democratic process.