KATHMANDU: General Secretary of the CPN-UML, Shankar Pokharel, has asserted that the UML has emerged as a defining political force in Nepal through its commitment to the principle of People’s Multi-Party Democracy (PMD).
Speaking at a commemorative program organized at the party headquarters in Kirtipur on the occasion of Madan-Ashrit Memorial Day, Pokharel said the political philosophy of PMD, developed under the leadership of late General Secretary Madan Bhandari, played a foundational role in establishing the UML as a strong and influential party. He recalled the 2051 BS general elections as a turning point in the party’s political rise.
“Since then, UML has played a key role in shaping national politics. PMD was instrumental in defeating reactionary and violent forces, as well as opposing the autocratic monarchy,” Pokharel said.
Reflecting on the party’s tumultuous journey, he noted that the UML had endured challenges such as political bans, a party split in 2054 BS, and setbacks during the Constituent Assembly period. However, he added, the party had always found a path to revival.
The event also marked the memory of two towering UML leaders—General Secretary Madan Bhandari and then Organization Department Chief Jivraj Ashrit—who lost their lives in the Dashdhunga jeep accident on Jestha 3, 2050 BS, while traveling from Pokhara to Chitwan.
Their contributions, Pokharel said, continue to inspire the party’s ideological and political course.
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