Leaders urge fulfilment of Martyrs’ dreams on Martyrs’ Day
KATHMADNU: Leaders across Nepal’s political spectrum have paid tribute to the nation’s martyrs on the occasion of Martyrs’ Day, stressing that their sacrifices must translate into meaningful change, justice, and a stronger democracy.
Senior leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Balen Shah, said that while Nepali citizens have repeatedly attained martyrdom, the dreams they laid down their lives for remain unfulfilled.
Posting a message on Facebook on Friday, Shah offered heartfelt tribute to the martyrs and warned that no one has the right to ignore or undermine their sacrifices.
Meanwhile, Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa urged the nation to take a solemn pledge to realise the martyrs’ dreams and walk the path they envisioned.
Paying high respect to their indomitable courage, determination and ideals, Thapa said that the martyrs’ devotion of their lives to the country and its people is the very reason Nepal today breathes in an era of freedom.
Thapa honoured all martyrs who sacrificed their lives in various movements and struggles—from the pre-2007 BS democratic revolution to the recent “Gen Z uprising of 2082 BS”—for the rights and freedom of the Nepali people. He said that only a strong and resilient democracy can transform Nepal into a peaceful and prosperous nation.
Emphasising collective responsibility, Thapa called on citizens to internalise the values of sacrifice, dedication and ideals shown by the martyrs and move forward firmly towards national prosperity. He also highlighted the need for effective implementation and timely refinement of the Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, promulgated by the Constituent Assembly under Congress leadership, to fully realise the rights guaranteed to the people.
Expressing optimism, Thapa said Martyrs’ Day should inspire Nepalis at home and abroad to work together towards the national aspiration of “Prosperous Nepal, Dignified Nepalis.”
Prime Minister Sushila Karki also paid tribute to the martyrs, stating that their courage, awareness and determination have placed the country at a historic turning point.
In her Martyrs’ Day message, she honoured all those who laid down their lives for civil liberties and democracy.
“Because of their courage, consciousness and resolve, the nation today stands at a historic crossroads,” the message read. “May no mother’s lap ever be emptied again. We bow as well to the brave warriors who attained martyrdom in the Gen-Z movement, which rose in hope of justice, equality, accountable governance and a brighter future.”
Prime Minister Karki further stressed that the responsibility of building a state founded on good governance, moral values and respect for citizens must remain at the forefront of every ruler’s conscience.
