Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa said on Friday that national development cannot be achieved by a single individual and stressed that a strong institutional system and collective political cooperation are essential for building the country.
Speaking at an election rally organized by the Nepali Congress in Butwal, Thapa said democracy does not function through the elevation or demonization of individuals. He stated that portraying one person as a hero or villain overnight is harmful to democratic practice.
“In a democracy, no one becomes a god or a devil overnight,” Thapa said. “A country is not built by one person alone. It is built by a team.”
Thapa said that structural reforms, including possible constitutional amendments, require broad political consensus. He stated that neither the Nepali Congress nor any other single party can implement systemic change independently.
“To bring issues that are outside the system into the system, constitutional amendments may be necessary,” he said. “For that, one party alone is not enough. Cooperation and agreement among all are required.”
He warned against the political tendency of claiming exclusive competence, saying that the mindset of “I alone can do it” could push the country toward serious instability.
Focus on Development in Lumbini Province
Thapa said the Nepali Congress is moving forward with both “speed and spirit,” adding that national progress requires both momentum and responsible intent. He expressed confidence that under the party’s leadership, the country could accelerate development over the next five years.
Focusing on Lumbini Province, Thapa said Butwal should serve as a development center for surrounding districts. While acknowledging infrastructure growth in the city, he noted that it has not been able to retain people due to limited local opportunities. He stressed the need for regional planning that allows residents to remain in their home districts.
Warning Against Emotion-Driven Politics
Thapa also cautioned against the influence of social media and mobile platforms, saying they can mislead people and encourage emotionally driven politics. He urged voters not to be swayed by provocation.
According to party sources, Thapa arrived in Butwal by helicopter from Sarlahi on Friday morning. After addressing the rally, he was scheduled to speak at additional public meetings in Lumbini, Gorusinge in Kapilvastu, Parbat, and Kaski later the same day.
