Nepalgunj, February 9

The unexpected demise of former prime minister and NC President Sushil Koirala has left the Koirala family, which was yet to get over the tragedy caused by his younger brother Dr Arun’s death, devastated.

Koirala passed away today at 12:50am at the age of 78.

Born to Bod Prasad Upadhayay and Kumudini Devi in Biratnagar, Sushil made Nepalgunj his working area. Sushil’s brothers live in Biratnagar and Nepalgunj.

When he came to Nepalgunj, he stayed at the house of his brothers Arun and Bijay as he did not own land or house.

Sushil had come to Nepalgunj to attend his deceased brother Arun’s first death anniversary two months ago. Arun had passed away when he was Banke NC President.

Sushil’s dedication and love towards his family and politics was commendable. Kiran, Arun’s wife, has sunk into double whammy following Koirala’s deatha. “The country has lost a parent.

We too have lost our guardian,” Kiran said, adding, “Now, it is our duty to fulfil his dreams and goals”.

Former chairperson of Women’s Union of Banke Kiran was preparing to participate in the 13th Banke district convention slated for today. “As we were busy with the election, we came to know about his passing away only at 4:00am,” Kiran said.

Kiran recounted that Sushil always talked of the country and people. “He was good-natured. He used to love every family member equally,” Kiran recalled.

Koirala’s youngest brother Bijay said he would never forget Sushil’s struggle and sacrifice for democracy.

Deputy Speaker condoles

RAJBIRAJ: Deputy Speaker Ganga Prasad Yadav said he is saddened by death of former prime minister and Nepali Congress president Sushil Koirala.

Speaking to journalists at his residence in Yoginiya, Saptari, Yadav termed Koirala’s demise an irreparable loss to the country.

“It’s unfortunate for the entire country that a leader of such stature should pass away at a time when the implementation of the statute has just begun,” he said.

Dwelling on Koirala’s sincerity in politics, Yadav praised him for his role in promulgating the constitution. “Besides, his attempt to resolve the Madhes crisis is praiseworthy,” said yadav.