KATHMANDU: Leaders of the CPN-UML have urged party cadres to remain patient and united, describing the current moment as a serious turning point in the party’s history.

Senior Vice-Chair Ishwar Pokharel, General Secretary Shankar Pokharel, and Secretary Yogesh Bhattarai issued separate appeals for calm and restraint.

They emphasized that the party cannot deviate from democracy, multiparty competition, human rights, press freedom, constitutional supremacy, and the rule of law.

Senior Vice-Chair Pokharel demanded an investigation into what he described as excessive and unnecessary use of force during the Gen-Z protests.

He strongly condemned the loss of lives, destruction of public and private property, vandalism of party offices, and attacks on historical heritage.

“Independent and impartial investigation must be carried out, and those responsible should face strict legal action. It is also our duty to ensure that such tragic incidents are not repeated,” he stated.

Pokharel further appealed for patience and harmony. “In this difficult period, maintaining calm and restraint is essential. Peace, social harmony, and justice must be safeguarded,” he said, urging all leaders, cadres, and citizens to remain steadfast in democratic principles, pluralism, social justice, rule of law, and transformative movements.

General Secretary Shankar Pokharel also called for patience, sharing a poem by Netralal Abhagi as a reminder of resilience in troubled times.

Meanwhile, UML Secretary Bhattarai presented a 10-point proposal, stressing the need to reorganize the party’s leadership and structure.

“We are facing one of the most serious crises in our history. The country and society are in deep instability. Decisions taken in haste or provocation will not guide us to the right path,” he wrote on Facebook.

Bhattarai called for a critical review of recent events and self-reflection within the party.

“Let us carefully restructure the party organization and leadership in a way that preserves unity. Our internal processes must be transparent and democratic. We must also address the concerns raised by Gen-Z protesters,” he added.