DAMAULI, FEBRUARY 17

At a time when the issue of whether or not to ratify the MCC has sparked a wave of protest across the country, senior Nepali Congress leader Ramchandra Paudel has asked one and all in the country to cooperate for ratification of the American grant pact, describing it as being in the interest of the nation.

Speaking at a party programme in Damauli today, Poudel asked the public not to form their opinion about the pact without learning about it.

'There are a lot of rumours about the MCC. As this assistance package is aimed at eliminating poverty, there is no point in taking to the street without learning much about it,' he said. He also urged the leaders of different parties to study the MCC before resorting to any protest.

'MCC isn't against national interest. Instead, it is for us and to help us develop vital infrastructure,' said the ruling party leader.

On a different note, Poudel stressed the need to continue this present alliance until the upcoming election.

'In the election, NC can fight on its own in strong constituencies, while we must support alliance candidates in weaker positions,' he said.

Various other leaders also spoke on the occasion.

A version of this article appears in the print on February 18, 2022, of The Himalayan Times.