KATHMANDU: An emergency meeting of the central executive committee of the Nepali Congress (NC) today has endorsed the condolence proposal over the demise of former Speaker Damannath Dhungana.
The party has said that it was disheartened and shocked by the news of the passing of the former Speaker of the House of Representatives on Sunday at the age of 83.
Dhungana, also the senior advocate, was battling with liver-related issues for some time. He was elected the House of Representative (HoR) member from the Kathmandu electoral constituency-2 during the 2048 BS (1992) general elections, representing the Nepali Congress.
He served as the HoR Speaker from 2048 to 2051 BS. Dhungana who contributed significantly to the country's democratic movement was jailed time and again by the Panchayati rulers during his political career. He is accredited for his active role in the building of party's organisation.
Dhungana also played a facilitating role in bringing the Maoist armed conflict (1996-2006) to a peace process, according to a press statement issued after the meeting. It adds that the party will always remember the contribution of Dhungana to the strengthening of human rights, justice and the democratic system.
Paying tributes to the late Dhungana, the meeting extended heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family.
Mourning the death of Dhungana, the NC has decided to fly its official flag at half-mast for two days: today and tomorrow. Besides, it is to close its central office on Tuesday, November 19 and hold a condolence assembly on the 13th day of his demise.
