Gopal Man Shrestha, key signatory to historic 12-point peace accord, dies at 83

Gopal Man Shrestha, a towering figure in Nepal's political landscape and a principal architect of its democratic journey, passed away at the age of 83. His death marks the end of an era for the Nepali Congress, a party he served for over six decades, from student activism against the partyless Panchayat system to the establishment of the federal democratic republic.

Shrestha's most significant contribution came in 2005 when, as acting president of the Nepali Congress, he signed the historic 12-point accord with Maoist chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal. This agreement was a watershed moment, catalyzing the 2006 People's Movement, ending the decade-long Maoist insurgency, and ultimately leading to the abolition of Nepal's 240-year-old monarchy.

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He was overjoyed when I told him. He told me he would recover soon and return to address public rallies.

His career was also defined by navigating internal party politics. He led the Nepali Congress during the 10-month imprisonment of its president, Sher Bahadur Deuba, in 2005, a period marked by the King's direct rule. Shrestha's leadership was credited with uniting the party and spearheading the campaign against the royal takeover. Later in his career, he aligned with a reformist faction, signaling a shift in his political allegiances.

In his final days, Shrestha expressed a desire to return to active politics, a testament to his enduring commitment. A party secretary recalled Shrestha's joy upon learning of his nomination as senior leader, a role awaiting formal endorsement. Shrestha's wish to be taken to the party office before his final rites underscored his deep connection to the political movement he helped shape.

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In his final days, whenever party leaders visited him, he would ask them to take him to the central office in Sanepa before taking him to Pashupati for his final rites.