KATHMANDU: UML General Secretary Shankar Pokharel has revealed that 10 years ago he advised Bidya Devi Bhandari not to become president, urging her to stay active in politics instead.

Speaking at the party’s 12th Representative Council meeting of GEFONT, he said he personally visited Bhandari at her residence and suggested it would be better if she declined, but after the party’s unanimous decision, she was made president.

Pokharel added that despite opposition, the party decided unanimously, and after completing two presidential terms, it was expected she would retire from politics, but she did not show such restraint.

Regarding the party’s 70-year age limit, he said it does not contradict democratic values. He also emphasized that everyone has the right to run for office at the general convention and that the party supports competition, ensuring democratization.

While all candidates have the right to run, the decision to select leadership lies with the representatives.