KATHMANDU: Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) MP and former Education Minister Sumana Shrestha on Sunday condemned the government’s suppression of protesting teachers.
Her remarks came after a clash left 63 teachers and a journalist injured — the first instance of violence since the peaceful protest began on April 3.
Expressing solidarity with the agitating teachers, Shrestha appealed to teachers to stand against the government’s dictatorial tendencies and character.
Addressing the teachers, she said: The leaders you once supported in various ways have now exposed their true morality and character through today’s oppression.
“No matter how politicians present themselves in Parliament or in public speeches, you must now understand how they truly view you,” she said.
Stating that the teachers have played a key role in changing the political system at various critical moments, she said, “However, although the system has changed, we have yet to change the culture of those who govern. Now, you too must participate in transforming this culture.”
She further added, “Even after your prolonged protest, we have failed to engage with you properly or to negotiate based on facts. Considering the attack on your dignity, it is time to reflect, reject these dictatorial tendencies and this political character.”
“If you still stand for truth and justice, abandon your party membership,” she said adding, “Now is the time for you to choose: will you live under the rule of law, or continue to live under the shadow of political leaders and parties?”
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