KATHMANDU: CPN-UML General Secretary Shankar Pokharel has attributed the September 8 and 9 unrest to the exploitation of youth by actors seeking to derail the country’s political stability.
Speaking at the party’s Central Committee meeting on Wednesday, Pokharel said the party had made multiple efforts to prevent the misuse of young members, but these measures failed to prevent the violent incidents.
“Despite our attempts, conspirators advanced their plans openly, leading to the events of September 8 and 9,” he said.
Pokharel further noted that the party has been witnessing a drift of newly affluent urban youth away from the CPN-UML. Meanwhile, landless, squatters, and poor citizens were reportedly swayed by various assurances and inducements, weakening support for the party.
He also pointed out that international developments at times influenced public opinion in Nepal, indirectly affecting the political landscape.
The general secretary revealed that during the Mission Grassroots initiative, plans were made to identify ten young leaders in each ward and develop their leadership skills. However, he said, the implementation fell short of expectations.
Despite directives to strengthen the party from the provincial to ward level and advance youth engagement, Pokharel admitted that the desired outcomes were not achieved.
He added that the Central Secretariat has prioritized party unity, and he expressed confidence that the Central Committee meeting would maintain this as a key agenda.
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