In a landmark event for the global Nepali diaspora, the two factions of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), declaring an end to their internal division and committing to a unified future.
The agreement was formalized at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar, in the presence of Prime Minister Sushila Karki and under the special initiative of Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Jagdish Kharel.
The MoU was signed by Dr. Badri KC, Chairman of the Working Committee elected by the 11th International General Assembly, and Mahesh Kumar Shrestha, Chairman of the Working Committee elected by the General Assembly of Solidarity. This unity paves the way for holding the 12th NRNA Congress within the next four months.
Speaking at the ceremony, Communications Minister Jagdish Kharel played a pivotal role in brokering the agreement. He urged the leadership to ensure the unity is deeply ingrained and practical.
“The signature is on paper,” Minister Kharel stated. “But this signature should remain in both the mind and the brain. Promote unity in practical implementation and sustainability. You can’t walk alone, but you can walk together.”
He emphasized that the division within the NRNA had diminished its stature and that the reunification presents a significant opportunity to rebuild it as a non-partisan, people-centric institution. Minister Kharel also commended the NRNA’s past assistance during national crises like earthquakes, blockades, and the pandemic, and urged them to focus on attracting investment for Nepal’s economic prosperity. He assured the association that the government would facilitate their raised concerns.
Dr. Badri KC, President of the NRNA, affirmed that this unity sends a positive message to all Nepalis, both at home and abroad. He committed the unified body to actively engage in Nepal’s economic development and stressed the need for legal safeguards to prevent future political divisions within the organization. Dr. KC extended special thanks to Minister Kharel for his mediating role.
Echoing this sentiment, Chairman Mahesh Shrestha said the declaration of unity has inspired non-resident Nepalis to come together emotionally and actively contribute to building a prosperous Nepal.
Prime Minister Sushila Karki expressed confidence that the unity declaration would prove to be a milestone. She called on the NRNA to understand the interests and needs of the diaspora and to contribute to Nepal’s development with a sense of national pride, regardless of their location.
“Nepalis living abroad have a profound love for their country and soil. Do whatever you can for your land,” Prime Minister Karki said.
She assured that the government would strive to ensure non-resident Nepalis can enjoy the rights and facilities provided by the constitution. In a reflective note, she also mentioned the recent damage to national heritage during the Gen Z movement, stating it was like “stones thrown into a calm pond,” and called for evaluation and the NRNA’s support in the nation’s recovery.
Concluding her address, the Prime Minister highlighted the unity as a lesson for Nepal’s political parties, emphasizing that those who lose elections should allow the winners to work, and all should be motivated by the promise of future opportunities.
