Bidya Devi Bhandari offers support to new generation of politicians

KATHMANDU: Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has expressed her willingness to support the new generation of political leaders in Nepal.

During a one-and-a-half-hour meeting on Tuesday morning with Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) spokesperson Manish Jha at her residence in Bhangal, Bhandari, also a former deputy chairperson of the CPN-UML, stated that she is ready to act as a mentor and guide for emerging political leaders.

The 2022 elections saw new parties, including RSP, challenge traditional political forces, while independent leaders such as Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah have also attracted young political talent. In this context, Bhandari indicated her preparedness to take on a guardian role for these emerging parties and leaders.

“Having a new generation enter politics is a positive development,” Jha quoted the former president. “She expressed her readiness to play a guiding role and to support young leaders in their political journey. She is also open to dialogue with new parties and leaders, hoping that such interactions continue.”

During the meeting, Bhandari also voiced concern over the political handling of Raswapa Chairperson Rabi Lamichhane’s case, who is currently in Nakkhu Jail in connection with a cooperative fraud investigation. “She expressed concern that instead of resolving the cooperative issue, it has been turned into an unnecessary political matter,” Jha said. “She also conveyed her goodwill toward Chairperson Lamichhane.”

Jha described the meeting as a gesture of political courtesy, highlighting that it was meant as an initial dialogue rather than being driven by any specific agenda.