Thapa links Sept 8-9 incident to public frustration, promises reform

KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress President Gagan Thapa has stated that the events of Bhadra 23 and 24 were the result of years of public frustration and dissatisfaction.

Addressing an election rally in Siraha, Thapa emphasized that these incidents should not be viewed solely from a security perspective but must be understood in their broader context.

“We were preparing for the 1984 elections, but the events of Bhadra opened our eyes,” Thapa said. “On the Sept 8, our unarmed youths were killed, and on the 9th, the nation suffered great loss. This damage and anger reflect the public’s dissatisfaction with the government, the Prime Minister, and our leadership.”

Citizens’ Frustration and Leadership Accountability

Thapa highlighted the daily struggles faced by citizens, citing long lines for passports, bureaucratic hurdles for licenses, fertilizer shortages, and unemployment among educated youth. “Millions are spent on education, yet there aren’t even 20,000 jobs in the cities.

Loans from banks are suffocating people,” he said. “When those responsible for addressing these issues ignore them, citizens take to the streets.”

Political Attitudes and Two Dangerous Trends

The Congress leader identified two harmful trends in current politics. First, the ruling mindset that “everything is fine, this is all a conspiracy,” and second, opportunists who “add fuel to the fire to raise their political flag.” Thapa added, “Those who cannot acknowledge mistakes are cowards. Those who admit and correct them are brave. We have made mistakes, and we must correct them to restore Congress as a party trusted by the people.”

Commitment to Good Governance and Fight Against Corruption

Thapa described corruption as “Nepal’s major disease” and stressed that its eradication must start from the top. “It is a grave sin for those entrusted with the country’s treasury to misuse it, just as it would be for a temple priest to steal a garland,” he said. “If a Prime Minister only thinks about his mother, daughter, or wife, nothing is a bigger crime than that.”

Madesh Issue and National Politics

Targeting other parties raising the Madesh issue, Thapa said Congress aims to represent Madesh’ rights and grievances to Kathmandu’s power centers. Explaining his candidacy from Sarlahi-4, he said, “One cannot lead the country without understanding Madesh. If I fail to fulfill what I promise, you are not obliged to listen—this is my pledge.”

Thapa urged voters to elect Congress candidate Ramchandra Chaudhary, guaranteeing that supporting Congress for five years would leave no room for regret.