
KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has extended his best wishes to all Nepali brothers and sisters, both at home and abroad, on Republic Day.
In a Facebook post, the Prime Minister said:
"Today is the day when the people made history by abolishing the repressive regime of the monarchy; when the nation’s interests took centre stage; when the citizens’ dignity was restored by shattering the haughty pride of the throne; and when over seven decades of struggle and sacrifice culminated in the establishment of a republican system." He added, "On the auspicious occasion of Republic Day, I sincerely wish all Nepali brothers and sisters residing here and overseas, Jaya Jaya Jaya Nepal!"
The 18th Republic Day is being celebrated across the country with a variety of programmes and grand fanfare.
Eighteen years have passed since Nepal embraced a republican system of governance following the April Uprising of 2006. The first meeting of the people‐elected Constituent Assembly, held on 28 May 2008, officially declared Nepal the Federal Democratic Republic by abolishing an autocratic monarchy that had prevailed for over 240 years.
Republic Day is observed nationwide to mark the historic day on which the republican system was proclaimed on the back of the People’s Movement of 2006. It is the day on which the Nepali people established civic supremacy by adopting an inclusive, proportionally democratic system that guarantees freedoms and social justice.
The Federal Democratic Republic has secured full political rights for the people, enabling them to progress collectively towards a prosperous future in an organised manner. The primary responsibility of the democratic republic is to enhance the dignity of Nepal on the global stage while eradicating poverty and ensuring access to education, health services, public transport, and social security.
The republican Constitution is grounded in public aspirations, making it essential to observe Republic Day as a celebration of democracy and the rights of every citizen. The Democratic Republic is regarded not merely as a political system but also as a form of governance and a way of life embodying the ideals of liberal democracy.
Among the governance systems practised worldwide, democracy is seen as a powerful instrument for improving living standards and ensuring national prosperity. Distinguished figures, including President Ramchandra Paudel, will participate in a ceremony organised by the Republic Day Main Celebration Committee at the Nepal Army Pavilion in Tundikhel, where tributes will be paid to martyrs who sacrificed their lives for change along with those who struggled for democracy.
Many Nepali citizens endured imprisonment and torture during movements for social justice, freedom, and prosperity in their bid to restore democracy. Leaders from various parties have stated that today’s celebration signifies a renewed commitment to uniting citizens and enhancing their rights within a democratic framework.
They emphasised a shared responsibility to improve living standards through increased production, fair distribution of opportunities, promotion of employment, and the establishment of good governance. In their messages, it was stated that the current generation must benefit from a robust economy while ensuring that the next generation inherits a strong, united, and liberal state with an enriched democratic culture.
Political leaders stated, "If we can progress in unison and cohesion, in accordance with the mandate, electoral rights and constitutional provisions, then the Federal Democratic Republican system in Nepal can be strong, robust and functional."
Leaders have stressed the need to promote a democratic lifestyle across all sectors of society and to institutionalise democracy at grassroots level. The democratic republican system must prioritise development, good governance, prosperity, and national pride in harnessing the strengths of every Nepali citizen in nation-building.
By RSS