KATHMANDU: CPN-UML Chair and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has accused the government of deviating from democratic values and moving towards fascism.
Speaking at an event organised to unveil the updated version of the UML party website and mobile application at the party’s central office in Chyasal on Friday, Oli alleged that the government was suppressing peaceful protests, restricting media outlets and increasing pressure on opposition parties.
Oli criticised those involved in arson attacks on the UML party office and leaders’ residences in the name of the Gen-Z movement. He said important documents, including the party’s library materials, were destroyed in the fire and urged supporters to help restore the lost records.
He alleged that vehicles had been deliberately placed in front of media houses, business organisations and opposition offices under the government’s direction, calling such actions a sign of growing authoritarianism.
“Bringing vehicles in front of someone’s office or home and blocking them is unacceptable. But people have been forced to tolerate it. This is what fascism is,” Oli said, adding that the government was preparing to mobilise people in plain clothes for attacks.
Oli also criticised the government over the alleged mistreatment of Gen-Z activist Majid Ansari during his visit to a squatters’ holding centre in Kirtipur.
He claimed that police used force against a peaceful protest organised in Biratnagar in response to the incident, arguing that preventing peaceful demonstrations goes against democratic practices.
Oli accused the government of creating fear and insecurity in society by obstructing opposition parties and media organisations. He alleged that the government was weakening the rule of law, dividing society and encouraging unlawful activities.
He also criticised the Balendra Shah-led government, claiming that its failure had increased problems in the country.
“Today, the country feels suffocated. There is uncertainty about what may happen and to whom. The government should establish the rule of law, but it is moving towards creating fear,” Oli said.
Oli further said that squatters’ problems remain unresolved and accused the government of failing to address their concerns while adopting what he described as an aggressive approach. He said many squatters continue to struggle without proper solutions.
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