Kathmandu: A delegation from the NGO Federation of Nepal (NFN) and civil society representatives, led by NFN President Arjun Kumar Bhattarai, met with President Ram Chandra Paudel on November 27 at Sheetal Niwas to discuss the country’s evolving political situation and the need to uphold democratic values.
During the meeting, the delegation briefed the President on the current political environment, stressing the importance of safeguarding democracy, constitutional principles, and the rule of law. They also highlighted preparations for the upcoming elections and the role of civil society in strengthening governance.
The delegation included Federation Advisors Dr. Arjun Karki, Shantalal Mulmi, and Saloni Singh; Immediate Past President Ram Prasad Subedi; Vice President Rajendra Sharma; General Secretary Devi Khadka; Deputy General Secretary Kiran Thapa; Secretary Jajrāj Shahi, among other members.
During the meeting, the delegation paid tribute to those killed and injured during the Gen Z movement (September 8-9) and called for an impartial investigation. They underscored the need to safeguard democracy, the constitution, and the rule of law, while also stressing that the upcoming elections must be held on schedule and conducted in a free, fair, and fear-free environment.
The delegation further called for an end to deliberate misinformation, allegations, and distrust directed at civil society, emphasizing that civil society should be recognized as a partner of the state, not an adversary.
They also highlighted the importance of strengthening good governance, transparency, and accountability, including the conclusion of major corruption cases. In addition, they emphasized the need to institutionally incorporate the voices of the younger generation into policymaking, uphold respect for the judiciary and constitutional bodies, and activate a national dialogue mechanism to help address the current political crisis.
President Paudel acknowledged the longstanding and important role of civil society. He stated that, with political parties now fully engaged in the electoral process, it is the government’s primary responsibility to conduct the elections on the stipulated date.
Moreover, he further emphasized that ensuring free, fair, and fear-free elections requires the shared commitment of the government, civil society, and all concerned stakeholders. The President also expressed the view that the government must avoid distractions, complete the election process, and hand over authority to a newly elected government with a fresh mandate.
The delegation formally submitted its memorandum to the Secretariat of the Office of the President.
