KATHMANDU: Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to the Communist Party of Nepal (UML) amid controversy over the non-renewal of her party membership.

Addressing a press conference on Friday following statements from the party and decisions by the central committee, Bhandari clarified that she has been a party member for 45 years.

She emphasized that there is no valid reason to suspend her membership.

“The party is built on the blood and sweat of thousands of members. I am not speaking out of emotion. I call upon UML cadres nationwide to continue advancing the party’s mission as envisioned by Madan Bhandari,” she said.

“I will not be shaken from my stance. I urge everyone to remain confident. The ideals raised by leader Madan Bhandari and his vision of ‘people’s multiparty democracy’ can make UML the permanent strength of the nation,” she added.

Bhandari expressed disappointment over decisions restricting her freedom, warning that such moves could weaken the party.

She stressed the importance of unity and selfless efforts to strengthen the party and fulfill Madan Bhandari’s vision of prosperity for Nepal.

“It is our duty to unite socially and reinforce the party. Only through collective effort can we uphold these ideals,” she added.