KATHMANDU: The CPN (UML) has said that the demise of Pradeep Nepal, a leading figure of the Nepali communist movement, has caused an irreparable loss to the communist movement, democratic movement and literary sector of Nepal.

UML General Secretary Shankar Pokharel issued a statement today, saying that the party was deeply saddened by the death of leader Nepal. He said that the party has also resolved to continue to draw inspiration from the good qualities, contributions and ideals of the late leader.

Lauding the significant contributions to establishing the then CPN (ML) and implementation of the people’s multi-party democracy, he said that creativity, tireless activity and energy are the characteristics of Comrade Pradeep Nepal’s personality. “Furthermore, as the President of the Madan-Ashrit Memorial Foundation, he played a significant role in establishing the ideas and ideals of popular leader Madan Bhandari and skilled organizer Jibaraj Ashrit.”

Leader Nepal, who had been suffering from Parkinson’s disease for some years, passed away on Tuesday evening. Born in Bhojpur Gogane on 28 Paush 2010 BS, Nepal spent nearly 14 years underground during the autocratic regimes, fighting for democracy. Before taking a break from active organizational life due to ill health, he was also a member of the UML Standing Committee and party spokesperson, adds the statement.

As Sanjay Thapa he was a very popular and inspiring creator of the progressive literary movement.