KATHMANDU: An all-party meeting convened on Wednesday at the initiative of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane issued a seven-point joint statement and public appeal, expressing serious concern over the recent sensitive developments in Sunsari and other parts of the country and calling for national unity, peace, and dialogue.
The meeting paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the recent incidents, extending heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. It also wished a speedy recovery to all civilians and security personnel injured in the violence.
The statement emphasized that Nepal’s identity is rooted in unity in diversity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence, urging citizens not to be provoked by activities or rhetoric that could undermine the country’s long-standing communal harmony and social cohesion. It stressed that violence and confrontation only deepen divisions rather than resolve grievances.
The participating political parties reaffirmed that, in a democratic system, even the most complex disputes and public dissatisfaction must be addressed through peaceful dialogue and consensus, calling on all concerned groups to pursue their demands through non-violent means.
Recognizing that maintaining peace requires coordinated efforts beyond the central government, the meeting directed political parties to immediately organize all-party and multi-stakeholder meetings at the provincial, district, and local levels. It also encouraged the involvement of religious leaders, civil society organizations, and local administrations in confidence-building and peace initiatives.
The parties pledged to take proactive leadership, maintain close coordination, and strengthen monitoring mechanisms to prevent similar incidents from recurring anywhere in the country.
The joint appeal also warned that misinformation, hate speech, and rumors, particularly on social media, could further inflame tensions. Citizens were urged to use social media responsibly, while media organizations were encouraged to publish only verified and factual information.
The meeting reminded the government that protecting the lives and property of citizens is its foremost responsibility. It called on the government to exercise maximum restraint, restore normalcy, conduct an impartial investigation into the incidents, bring those responsible to justice in accordance with the law, and provide appropriate compensation and relief to the victims.
Concluding the statement, the participating political parties reaffirmed their collective commitment to safeguarding national unity and social harmony and pledged to support the government and society in achieving a lasting, peaceful, and effective resolution to the current situation.
