KATHMANDU: Former Minister Khemraj Bhatta ‘Mayalu’ passed away last night.

Bhatta, who was suffering from cancer, was being treated at Bir Hospital in Kathmandu.

Born in Dadeldhura, Bhatta was one of the leading leaders who raised voice for the establishment of republicanism in the country.

In the general election of 2056BS, he was elected to the House of Representatives from Bardiya representing the Nepali Congress.

He also served as the Minister of General Administration.

Later he left the Nepali Congress and joined the Maoist Center.