NC must bridge democracy and delivery: Thapa

By Pallav Bhusal

Kathmandu, Oct. 5: Nepali Congress (NC) President Gagan Kumar Thapa has called for a fundamental change in the party’s political culture, leadership and priorities, saying it must rebuild public trust by linking democracy with improvements in people’s lives.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the party’s 15th General Convention at Khula Manch in Kathmandu on Sunday, Thapa said the convention should be an opportunity to review the party’s past and chart a new course.

“We must leave this convention with renewed energy and determination, believing that a changed Nepali Congress can change the country,” he said.

Thapa blamed growing public frustration on the repeated return of familiar faces to positions of power, describing Nepali politics as a game of musical chairs. Such practices, he said, had created the impression that all political parties and leaders were alike, contributing to the public anger that culminated in the events of September 9 and 10 last year.

He said Nepali Congress must look beyond its historical achievements and address persistent challenges, including unemployment, rural decline and the migration of young people.

“Why have we failed to create jobs, and why are young people leaving the country?” he asked, calling for policies that create employment, strengthen rural economies and expand opportunities.

Thapa stressed that democracy would lose public support unless political rights translated into better public services and economic opportunities.

“Nepali Congress must serve as the bridge between democracy and delivery. If that bridge collapses, trust collapses,” he said. He also called for greater openness within Parliament and political parties, arguing that citizens must be able to question leaders without fear of losing party membership. Referring to Khula Manch’s reopening after a decade, he said the country needed spaces for free expression and debate.

“Parliament is closed, parties are closed, and that is why the country needs an open platform,” he said.