KATHMANDU: In a planned mass assembly on November 23, approximately 50,000 individuals are expected to rally at Ratna Park in Kathmandu, led by medical practitioner Durga Prasai, demanding the restoration of the monarchy, among others.
The assembly follows the imposition of a prohibited area by the District Administration Office Kathmandu, citing security concerns, stretching from Padmodaya Chowk to New Baneshwar.
In an exclusive interview with Khabarhub, Prasai expressed gratitude for the administration’s decision, emphasizing the nationwide momentum for a change in the existing system.
He asserted that citizens from all corners of the country are converging in Kathmandu to advocate for political change.
Prasai, committed to sustaining the protest until the desired change is achieved, stated, “I don’t even want to go to Maitighar Mandala, where Dr. Gobinda KC, Madhav Nepal, Prachanda had already stayed during their protests.”
The District Administration Office Kathmandu’s prohibitory orders disrupted planned programs of both Prasai and CPN-UML’s sister organization Yuwa Sangh.
In response, Yuwa Sangh shifted its program from Maitighar to Tinkune. The CPN-UML views this as a display of strength against Prasain’s movement.
Here’s an excerpt from the interview with Durga Prasai:
Considering the restrictions imposed on Maitighar following your planned event, what are your thoughts on this development?
I have never favored Maitighar Mandala as a venue from the beginning. It is a place where individuals like Gobinda KC, Madhav Nepal, and Prachanda have opposed our presence.
I have never participated in any events at Maitighar Mandala, and I have no intention of doing so on November 23.
How many people do you anticipate for the mass assembly?
The number of participants will be evident on the day of the event. Yesterday and today, 50,000 individuals flocked to Kathmandu. People from every household and street of Kathmandu are actively engaging in our program.
Our initiative caters to the working class, tribal communities, the impoverished, victims of microfinance, laborers, middle-class traders, and slum dwellers along the people residing at the Bagmati river banks.
It is a movement of the grassroots people. This program extends from Mechi to Mahakali, encompassing the entire nation.
Is your program still scheduled for Ratnapark?
Regardless of the location granted to us, we are not akin to Mahesh Basnet.
The program will take place at Ratna Park. Our supporters are not confined to November 23 only. They will remain in Kathmandu until the desired systemic change occurs.
What is the underlying reason for your discontent with UML leader Mahesh Basnet?
My grievances against Mahesh Basnet stem from his attempts to undermine me during my events by deploying his henchmen and making baseless accusations.
When do you plan to arrive in Kathmandu from Jhapa for the upcoming program?
I will be in Kathmandu by tomorrow.
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