KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa has paid tribute to veteran civil society leader Dr Devendra Raj Pandey, describing his death as a great loss to the nation and to Nepal’s democratic movement.
In a social media post on Saturday, Thapa said Pandey dedicated his life to defending civil liberties, equality, human rights and democratic values with courage and conviction.
“The nation has lost a distinguished intellectual, a moral leader and a vigilant guardian of democracy,” Thapa wrote.
He said Pandey played a vital coordinating role during key moments of Nepal’s democratic movements, raising a strong voice against authoritarianism while inspiring younger generations.
Thapa also highlighted Pandey’s contributions as a former finance secretary, finance minister, development thinker and governance advocate, saying his work brought new perspectives to debates on Nepal’s economy, public administration and development.
He expressed confidence that Pandey’s integrity, transparency and moral courage in public life would remain an enduring legacy for future generations.
“His contribution to promoting social harmony, equality and national unity will always be remembered. The civic consciousness he inspired and the intellectual legacy he leaves behind will continue to guide us,” Thapa said.
Dr Pandey passed away on Friday evening at the age of 87 at his residence in Bishalnagar, Kathmandu, after battling cancer.
A prominent economist, former finance minister and leading figure in Nepal’s civil society, Pandey played a key role in the 1990 People’s Movement and the 2006 pro-democracy movement, while remaining a vocal advocate of good governance, accountability and democratic reforms throughout his life.
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