KATHMANDU: Last week in Nepal was marked by a blend of national pride, political upheaval, and personal tragedy.
The government honored Paralympic athlete Palesha Goverdhan with a substantial cash prize for winning Nepal’s first bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, while also recognizing her coach and team manager.
Meanwhile, Ashok Raj Sigdel formally assumed command as the Chief of Army Staff, succeeding Prabhu Ram Sharma.
Nepal also made a significant diplomatic stride by joining the International Solar Alliance as its 101st member.
In sports, the Cricket Association of Nepal announced its squad for the U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifiers.
However, political tensions escalated as the Maoist Center obstructed parliamentary proceedings over the use of the term ‘violence’ in historical records.
Additionally, a tragic jeep accident in Baglung claimed several lives, including a local vice chair, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety.
Palesha’s historic achievement and government recognition
The week commenced with a moment of national pride as Palesha Goverdhan, a Paralympic athlete, was honored by the government for her outstanding performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
Palesha secured Nepal’s first bronze medal in para-taekwondo, marking a historic achievement for the country.
In a ceremony held at the Prime Minister’s official residence, Baluwatar, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli presented Palesha with a tax-free cash prize of Rs 6.5 million.
This recognition extended beyond Palesha, as her coach, Kabiraj Negi Lama, and team manager, Ramchandra Shrestha, were also awarded substantial cash prizes in acknowledgment of their contributions to her success.
Leadership transition in the Nepali Army
Another significant event was the official assumption of command by Ashok Raj Sigdel as the Chief of Army Staff (CoAS) of the Nepali Army.
President Ram Chandra Paudel, acting as the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, conferred the insignia upon Sigdel, marking his formal induction into the role.
Sigdel, the 45th CoAS, took over from Prabhu Ram Sharma, who had dedicated four decades to the army and had been on leave since August.
Sigdel’s appointment, which became effective on September 9, represents a pivotal moment in the leadership of the Nepali Army.
Nepal’s membership in the International Solar Alliance
In an international diplomatic achievement, Nepal became the 101st member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
This milestone was marked by the formal handover of the ISA Instrument of Ratification by Nepal’s Chargé d’Affaires Surendra Thapa to Indian officials in New Delhi.
This membership underscores Nepal’s commitment to promoting solar energy and participating in global efforts to combat climate change.
Selection for U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifiers
The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) announced its squad for the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifiers.
A total of 29 cricketers have been selected to represent Nepal in the qualifiers, which will be held in the UAE from November 6-13, 2024.
This announcement reflects the growing prominence of women’s cricket in Nepal and the country’s aspirations to excel on the international stage.
Political tensions with the Maoist Center
The political landscape was also marked by turmoil as the Maoist Center, the main opposition party, declared its intention to obstruct parliamentary proceedings.
The party’s leaders have voiced strong objections to the use of the term ‘violence’ in reference to the ‘People’s War’ in the official records.
They argue that this term undermines their struggle and the peace agreement. Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda has been vocal in his criticism, insisting that this issue must be resolved to avoid diminishing the significance of their past efforts.
Tragic jeep accident in Baglung
A tragic accident occurred in Baglung, where a jeep carrying several individuals met with a fatal accident.
Vice Chair Bhupendraa Buda of Putha Uttarganga Rural Municipality was among those who lost their lives.
The identities of the other deceased individuals are yet to be confirmed, and another person was injured and hospitalized.
This incident has drawn attention to road safety issues in the region.
Overall, last week’s events underscore a dynamic period for Nepal, characterized by notable achievements in sports and international diplomacy, significant changes in military leadership, political unrest, and a somber tragedy.
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