Supporters of Durga Prasai also set to continue their protest
KATHMANDU, Nov 22: The ruling party, CPN-UML, is holding a mass gathering in Kathmandu today as a display of strength. The UML, which leads the government, has organized the event as a street demonstration against what it describes as "anarchy." The party aims to mobilize 100,000 supporters for the event.
Although referred to as a "Jagarana Sabha" (Awareness Assembly), the UML seems to be preparing to exert pressure on opposition parties. The public demonstration comes as criticism against the UML and its leadership has intensified in recent days.
We will show the power of the people: Oli
The party has instructed all affiliated organizations to bring activists from the three districts of the Kathmandu Valley to the event. Participants will assemble at Bhadrakali at 11:30 AM and march toward the venue at Durbar Marg, according to UML officials.
Rajendra Gautam, chief of the UML Publicity Department, stated that the march at Durbar Marg has been organized in a way that minimizes disruption to traffic. He also mentioned that the venue was changed from Bhrikutimandap to Durbar Marg based on public suggestions to ensure smoother movement for the general public.
The rally will be addressed by UML Chairman and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, along with General Secretary Shankar Pokhrel. Facing growing criticism over the government's inability to deliver on its promises, the UML appears to be using this event to demonstrate its strength and counter the mounting pressure.
Meanwhile, supporters of medical entrepreneur Durga Prasai are also preparing to stage a protest in Koteshwor today. Prasai, who accused Prime Minister Oli of investing $210 million in Cambodia, was recently detained by police. Despite his detention, Prasai's supporters have announced that they will continue their protest, rallying under the slogan, "Save the nation, religion, and citizens."
Additionally, victims of cooperative fraud are expected to continue their protest at Maitighar today. They are demanding legal action against those responsible for the fraud and the return of their lost funds.
With protests scheduled at three different locations today, traffic movement in inner Kathmandu is likely to be significantly affected. Chief District Officer of Kathmandu, Jayanarayan Acharya, has stated that security measures have been implemented to ensure peace and order.
