CPN-UML to Launch Protests Against Arrest of Party Chairman KP Sharma Oli

Kathmandu. The CPN-UML has decided to formally begin protests starting Sunday against the arrest of party Chairman KP Sharma Oli. The decision was made during an emergency secretariat meeting of the CPN-UML after Chairman Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak were arrested by the police on Saturday.

Following the meeting, CPN-UML General Secretary Shankar Pokhrel condemned and denounced the arrest of Chairman and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, as well as Congress leader and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak. He stated that the incident was against democratic values and the rule of law, demanding the unconditional release of both individuals.

The party announced that while it will submit protest letters starting Sunday, its mass organizations have already begun resistance since Saturday. CPN-UML also expressed its disagreement and opposition to the Gauribahadur Karki Commission formed to investigate the incidents of Bhadra 23 and 24, stating that the commission's report was contrary to judicial principles.

General Secretary Pokhrel informed that the CPN-UML demanded the formation of a high-level investigation commission for the incident.

The CPN-UML has also called upon everyone for joint initiatives against the arrest of Chairman Oli and leader Lekhak. General Secretary Pokhrel stated, "The incident has worried everyone who believes in the constitution and democracy, and a decision has been made to legally and politically resist against it." He added, "Protest letters will be submitted through the District Administration starting Sunday, Chaitra 15. Furthermore, other protest programs will be determined in coordination with other parties."

The CPN-UML meeting assigned leaders Bishnu Poudel, Ram Bahadur Thapa, Gokul Bista, and others to coordinate efforts for collective resistance following dialogue with parties represented in the parliament, as informed by General Secretary Pokhrel.