Pokhara, 30 January | Senior leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Balendra Shah, popularly known as Balen, has remarked that while Nepal has witnessed multiple shifts in its political systems over the past 85 years, the fundamental character of power and governance remains unchanged. On the occasion of Martyr’s Day, Shah paid heartfelt tribute to the legendary martyrs—Gangalal Shrestha, Dashrath Chand, Dharma Bhakta Mathema, and Shukraraj Shastri—who were brutally executed by the autocratic Rana regime 85 years ago. He noted that even though the Rana rule ended a decade after their sacrifice, the state failed to truly belong to the people, forcing Nepali citizens into a cycle of continuous struggle for their basic rights and dignity.
Reflecting on the historical timeline, Balen highlighted that despite numerous revolutions, the dreams of the martyrs have yet to be fully realized. He specifically drew a parallel with the recent Gen Z movement that took place last September (Bhadra), where young students and citizens sacrificed their lives while demanding an end to corruption and the establishment of good governance. According to Shah, the fact that youths still have to die on the streets for transparency and accountability proves that the deep-rooted corruption and extreme partisan interests within state institutions have hindered the nation’s progress. He asserted that the responsibility to transform Nepal into an economically prosperous and ethically governed nation now rests upon the current generation of leaders.
Shah further claimed that he and his party are moving forward with a concrete vision to honor the blood of the martyrs by institutionalizing social justice and a corruption-free administration. He emphasized that there is no longer any room to ignore the historical sacrifices, and the time has come to make the state accountable and transparent to its citizens. Expressing his commitment to the cause, Balen stated that his goal is to ensure a future where no Nepali has to become a martyr again for their rights. He concluded his message by urging everyone to be dedicated in mind, word, and deed to fulfilling the long-awaited dreams of all known and unknown martyrs, thereby making their ultimate sacrifice meaningful for the prosperity of the country.
