Former Prime Minister and Nepali Communist Party coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has called on political parties and other stakeholders to unite in response to the country’s current crisis.
“We are facing serious challenges, so we must work together. There is no time for prolonged political debate. Everyone needs to unite to protect the people,” Prachanda said at an all-party meeting.
He said the country was in the midst of a major crisis and that political disputes and divisions should not get in the way of a collective response.
Political disagreement is a normal feature of democracy, he added, but it should not prevent parties from joining forces in times of crisis.
Nepal has united in the past during major emergencies, including the Koshi floods, the Jure landslide, the 2015 earthquake and the Jajarkot earthquake.
“We need to stand together again now. Political parties, government bodies and other groups must work as one,” he said.
Saving lives must be the priority
Prachanda said the government’s foremost responsibility during a disaster should be to save lives.
“Government agencies, political parties and organisations must coordinate effectively. Search and rescue, medical care and relief need to be delivered without delay,” he said.
“Everyone must receive assistance, and no one should be overlooked.”
Prachanda points to climate concerns
He said the latest disasters should not be treated simply as seasonal events. Climate change, growing environmental risks and changes in the Himalayas are important issues that require serious attention.
“We need scientific and technical research, stronger policies and national plans to reduce the impact of future disasters,” he said.
He added that planning should cover both immediate emergency action and longer-term risks.
Stronger coordination with neighbouring countries
Prachanda also stressed the importance of working more closely with neighbouring countries to strengthen early warning systems and disaster preparedness across the Himalaya.
“On international platforms, we should raise climate justice, compensation and support for the most vulnerable Himalayan countries,” he said.
Such cooperation would help reduce risks and ensure countries across the region are ready for major natural disasters.
Parties to support the government
Prachanda said his party would assist the government in disaster response and relief efforts, including in areas affected by the recent Bhote Koshi flood in Rasuwa.
Party leaders and members have been asked to work alongside government agencies on rescue, relief and other forms of assistance.
“We must act together as one nation so that nobody is left behind. Rescue and relief efforts must not be delayed, and help must reach everyone.”