His Majesty King Gyanendra
His Majesty King Gyanendra
(File Photo)
His Majesty King Gyanendra, who arrived in Mahendranagar, Kanchanpur district, this afternoon as part of his unofficial tour to mid and far-western regions, gave instructions to senior government officials and security heads, asking them to work for peace and development in the region.
Giving directions to administrative and security heads gathered for his welcome at the Mahakali Zonal Administration Office in Mahendranagar, the King said, “We don’t need terrorism. Peace is what people want. I suggest all of you to make efforts in that line.”
“The main thing,” His Majesty remarked, “Is how to bring those – who have chosen the wrong path – into the democratic process.” According to reports, the King also urged government officials and security heads to speed up the development programs while ensuring peace and security in the region.
His Majesty also conversed with ordinary citizens lined up for his welcome in Mahandranagar. Later in the evening, he returned to the Far-western divisional headquarters of the Royal Nepalese Army in Dipayal, Doti district, where he will stay for some days.
Meanwhile, the King’s visit to the districts has drawn mixed reaction from political quarters.
Speaking at a program organised by the Reporters’ Club in Kathmandu today, leaders of opposition parties said the visit would not bring about any positive change in the present situation as the King has assumed direct power. Others, however, said it would circulate hope and confidence amongst the people, the government officials and the security forces.
“The King’s visit to the district is yet another proof of how desperate he is in executing his political ambitions,” said Nepali Congress (Democratic) leader and former minister Bhim Kumari Budha. “There is going to no positive results.”
Speaking on the same line, CPN (UML) central leader Prakash Jwala said the royal tour was waste of government funds and that the visit had clear political motives.
On the contrary, former minister Kamal Choulagain said, “This is a normal process. It is all for the welfare of the people.”