SUSPICIOUS DEATH

The Kathmandu Post

14 February 2016

SUSPICIOUS DEATH

It was disappointing and a bit shocking news to read that Sushil Koirala’s illness was hidden from the public (“Was Koirala’s illness “kept in dark “for political expediency”? 10 February Page 3) at a time when the Nepali Congress (NC) is preparing for its general assembly in the second week of March. Did the party establishment really hide his illness for their political interests and benefits keeping the upcoming general convention in mind as claimed by the Deuba faction? If so, then the so- called Koirala’s aides, made a gross mistake of not providing him proper treatment when he was greatly in need of it. And, if there was any foul play on the part of the concerned leaders, it should be properly investigated by independent body and the facts brought out to the public.

Was he not completely cured from cancer as claimed by his personal doctor and relatives? Was it mere propaganda that he had defeated cancer so that he could hold the power within the party establishment in the upcoming general convention? Whatever the facts, questions can still be raised as to why he was not taken to the hospital when he was critically ill. This is entirely internal politics of NC. However, Koirala’s right to receive life saving treatment, when he was critically ill, has been grossly violated by his aides. The issue has become the talk of the town.

The sudden and unexpected death of Sushil Koirala ahead of NC’s 13^th General Convention has left the NC in crisis at such a time when the party is sharply divided and in need of its next leader (“Leadership void feared” 10 February, Page 3). It seems now that the dynastic politics limited around the Koirala family may get derailed. However, time has come for the second generation leaders to act wisely and sensibly to keep the largest party intact. If not, the party, which is known as the oldest democratic party, may weaken, if not disintegrate, due to its factional politics.

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj

http://kathmandupost.ekantipur.com/printedition/news/2016-02-14/suspicious-death.html