Nepalgunj, Apr. 5: Chairman of the CPN (Maoist Centre) and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ addressed a mass meeting organised under the Tarai-Madhes Jagran Abhiyan (Awakening Campaign) at Kusumba Bazaar of Madhuban Municipality in Bardiya on Friday. 

Earlier on Thursday, he addressed a large-scale civic dialogue programme organised  in Nepalgunj under the same campaign.  In Nepalgunj,  he asserted that the Nepali people would not tolerate regression in any form.  

 Prachanda claimed that forces seeking to reverse democratic progress were resurfacing. However, he emphasised that such attempts would not be accepted by the Nepali people.  

Acknowledging public frustration caused by long-standing political instability, corruption, and the shortcomings of political parties, he clarified that this discontent does not indicate a desire to reinstate the monarchy.  

Chairman Prachanda stated that the Maoist Centre has begun a thorough review of the country’s current situation and the aspirations of the people. He added that the party has embarked on a process of self-criticism and direct engagement with citizens to address their grievances.  

“We fully understand the gravity of the situation. That is why we have launched the Tarai-Madhes Jagran Abhiyan to reconnect with the people and seek their suggestions and advice,” he said.  

He also accused pro-monarchy forces of exploiting the nation’s uncertainty, warning that those attempting to reverse Nepal’s republican achievements would ultimately fail. “The only alternative to the republic is a socialist republic. Those who want to drag the country backwards will be defeated,” he said.  

Prachanda urged the public not to equate the Maoist Centre with other parties, stating that his party has undergone introspection and is actively engaging with the people. He also reaffirmed the Maoists’ commitment to defending the republic at all costs.  

Highlighting growing tensions between pro-democracy and authoritarian forces, Prachanda warned that the nation could soon witness a confrontation between republicans and autocrats. He called for preparedness to ensure that autocratic elements are permanently defeated.  

During the civic dialogue on Thursday, local civic leaders and representatives of professional organisations expressed concerns over increasing public disillusionment due to political inefficiency and corruption. They cautioned that failure to address issues such as political stability, corruption, and economic development could further destabilise the country.  

Participants, including Nepalgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Tanka Dhami, civil society leader Krishna Prasad Shrestha, senior human rights activist Bhola Mahat, senior journalist J Pandey, and FNCCI central member Abdul Bahid Mansuri, raised various questions with Chairman Prachanda.  

The event was also attended by senior Maoist leaders Krishna Bahadur Mahara, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, Agni Sapkota, Dev Gurung, and Pampha Bhusal