Kathmandu, Jan. 21: Nepali Congres President Girija Prasad Koirala has said Nepali people have had their place and role in the state following the restoration of democracy in the country.
Mr Koirala made this remark while inaugurating the second convention of Nepali Sherpa Association here today.
Observing that the country is steeped in corruption and anomalies, and law and order situation is dismal, the NC chief remarked that if the democrats become critical either of the party or of government over such things, we should welcome them in order to strengthen democracy.
Different social organizations have opened in the country for preserving one’s own rights and interests and for social upliftment, Mr Koirala said, adding the people are optimistic that something good will be done for them and the government should be serious about how to provide maximum facilities to them by using the limited means and resources at its disposal.
The indomitable spirit, courage and dedication to work of the Sherpas have helped Nepal enhance its dignity in the international fora, he noted.
CPN-UML’s Jhalanath Khanal observed that Nepal’s democracy is under threat from the extremist forces, adding that it is because of the inability of the present government that a conflicting situation has arisen in the country and development and construction work have stalled.
A museum of nationalities should be set up for preservation of the languages, cultures and values of the ethnic people, he said.
CPN-ML standing committee member Rajendra Shrestha noted that his party is in favour of providing the right of self-decision to the nationalities.
Various other speakers including NC central member Laxman Ghimire, Rajeshwor Devkota of the RPP (Chand) and RPP’s Baburam Poudel also expressed their views at the function chaired by association president Jip Tshering Sherpa.
A message from His Majesty the King wishing the convention a success was also read out on the occasion.
Nc Chief Koirala also launched a souvenir published by the Association on the occasion.