By Nepal News Correspondent

Kathmandu, Feb 19:

His Majesty King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev said that people’s faith and confidence in a democratic polity can be sustained only if their aspirations to live a life with dignity in an atmosphere of freedom is ensured through good governance and effective development of institutions.

In a message to the nation on the occasion of 50th Democracy Day, His Majesty the King paid tribute to His late Majesty King Tribhuvan and all those who laid down their lives for the cause of democracy.

Following is the full text of His Majesty the King’s message to the nation on the occasion of 50th Democracy Day:

Beloved countrymen,

On the occasion of the National Democracy Day, we would like to pay homage to our august grandfather, the late King Tribhuvan, and all those who laid down their lives for the cause of democracy.

Today, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the ushering in of democracy in our country, we should not forget that the people’s faith and confidence in a democratic polity can be sustained only if their aspirations to live a life with dignity in an atmosphere of freedom is ensured through good governance and effective development of our institutions, while enhancing the glory of the nation.

It is, therefore, essential that institutions established under the constitution and all others carry out their responsibilities impartially and efficiently so that every Nepali gets the feel of good governance.

May this day inspire all Nepalese to forge ahead by consolidating democracy in the interest of the Nepalese people. May Lord Pashupatinath bless us all!