Decline in ideal politics to be blamed for not meeting public's expectations: President Paudel

Kathmandu, September 9 — President Ramchandra Paudel has expressed his concern that despite notable political achievements, the leadership could not deliver to public expectations due to a decline in ideal politics.     

At a programme organized by the BP Trust marking the BP Memorial Day at the Office of the President on Monday, President Paudel said, "Politics is a tool to serve the people, not an end. I am concerned that power is increasingly viewed as an end rather than means and ideal politics is overlooked."     

Reflecting on the legacy of the late BP Koirala, the first elected Prime Minister of the country, President Paudel argued that if BP Koirala had compromised in his political principles, he could have been in power indefinitely.     

"But, the Head of the State, recalled that BP never strayed himself from his political principles and ideals that put the national and public's interest at top over personal gains which stands as a testament to ideal politics."     

Born on Bhadra 24, 1971 BS, noted leader Koirala passed away on Saun 6, 2039 BS. Founder of the Nepali Congress, Koirala was also a proponent of principles of 'nationalism, democracy and socialism' and 'national reconciliation'.     

On the occasion, President Paudel observed that the Principle of State Welfare upheld by BP and the vision of economic prosperity through democratic socialism envisaged by him were still very relevant in recent times.     

Seconding BP's belief that democratic governance and social justice were essential for national development, Paudel applauded the clear and concrete vision of BP that all Nepalis families could be upgraded to middle-class status within 15 years through increased production, equitable distribution and social justice was still pertinent.     

Furthermore, the President acknowledged the importance of national unity and reconciliation in addressing the country's issues. He claimed that these principles had played a key role in achieving a federal democratic republic.     

On the occasion, President Paudel awarded poet Dwarika Shrestha with Rs 100,000 in cash and freedom fighter Bhojraj Bhandari with Rs 51,000 in cash.     

The awards were distributed by 'Jananayak B.P. Koirala Memorial Trust' also known as 'BP Trust'.