KATHMANDU: Senior leader of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party and a prominent figure from the Panchayat era, Bishwa Bandhu Thapa , passed away on Saturday evening at the age of 98.

Active in Nepali politics since 1951 (2007 BS), Thapa was regarded as one of the influential leaders of the Panchayat period. Over the years, he held several key state responsibilities, playing an important role in administration and policymaking.

A witness to major political transitions—from the Panchayat system to the restoration of multiparty democracy and subsequent political changes—Thapa was widely known in political circles for his experience and forthright views.

He also made a significant contribution to the formation and organizational expansion of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party.