Kathmandu, July 25: Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has stated that there is no justification for revoking her membership in the CPN-UML, asserting her longstanding commitment to the party.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Bhandari said, “It has been 45 years since I became a member of the party. This fact is as clear as daylight. There is no reason to strip me of my membership.”
She further said, “The recent decision, which undermines both the rule of law and party values—as well as my individual freedom—has deeply hurt me. Such actions will only harm the party in the long run. Even if the truth can be suppressed for a time, it cannot be hidden forever. This is the essence of democracy.”
Former President Bhandari reiterated that she had first formally joined the party 34 years ago, and now her involvement spans 45 years.
“Depriving me of party membership despite my continued commitment to party principles is simply unacceptable,” she added.
Bhandari confirmed that she had legally renewed her membership with the CPN-UML, and emphasized that she had done so with the intention of becoming politically active again.
“I renewed my membership in accordance with party procedures,” she explained. “Though I hadn’t publicly announced it, the media reported on it. In that context, I felt it would be inappropriate to stay silent. I decided to reengage in party politics by renewing my membership during the 74th birth anniversary of Madan Bhandari, keeping in mind the necessity of contributing to the party and the nation.”
She further said, “I do not seek any position, personal ambition, or interest. I have already etched my name in history by reaching the highest state office. My goal is to become a member of the party, strengthen and unify it, and serve the nation and people through meaningful political engagement.
In fact, it has been more than five months since I became a party member. Given my clear commitment to the party’s ideology, principles, and statutes, there is no justifiable reason to deny my membership now.
Thousands of leaders, cadres, and members have invested their sweat, blood, and dedication into building this party. I do not speak out of emotion but from a place of deep respect for our party’s traditions, values, and ideals. Based on this, I appeal to all members of the CPN (UML) to uphold the party’s ideology on internal democracy as envisioned by the late Madan Bhandari.
My commitment and appeal reflect the voice of my conscience. I will not back away from my decision. Therefore, I wholeheartedly call upon all members of the party to embrace its core values with determination and engage actively in party activities with full confidence and resolve.”
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bidya bhandari statement 2025
