KATHMANDU: Political leaders have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran civil society leader, development thinker, and former Finance Minister Devendra Raj Pandey, who passed away on Friday evening at his residence in Bishalnagar, Kathmandu, at the age of 87.

Former Prime Minister and Coordinator of Nepali Communist Party Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ extended his deep condolences, emphasizing that Pandey’s monumental contributions to Nepal’s peace process, the establishment of the democratic republic, and public rights will always be respectfully remembered in Nepali history.

Similarly, Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa paid heartfelt tributes, stating that the nation has lost a brilliant intellectual, a moral leader, and a vigilant guardian of democracy.

Thapa highlighted Pandey’s lifelong commitment to civil liberties, human rights, and good governance, noting that his unwavering voice against autocracy during critical turning points of Nepal’s democratic movements will remain an invaluable legacy for future generations.