Kathmandu, October 8:

Founder leader of the Nepali Congress (NC) and former prime minister Krishna Prasad Bhattarai today suggested “older generation” to step back and hand over the reins of the leadership to “dynamic and younger” generation with a new spirit to save the country’s sovereignty, integrity and nationality.

Bhattarai said the “older generation” has totally failed after it postponed the November 22 constituent assembly elections. He also suggested party leaders and cadres to “rise above” party interests and even “ignore the party line” for the greater good of the country.

Speaking to reporters at his residence in Bhaisepati today, Bhattarai urged people to “come and work together” for the sake of the nation. He was of the view that the postponement of elections has dragged the country into a “political deadlock”.

“Let’s act before it is too late,” he said, suggesting the political parties, including the Maoists, to forge a unity by preparing a stricture at the special session of the parliament beginning Thursday. He said he may take part in the special session of the parliament. Bhattarai, widely known as Kishunji, also reiterated his support to the monarchy, saying, “I am in favour of a monarch who is liked by the people.”

To a query on possible military coup, Bhattarai ruled out any such possibility. “I don’t think this will happen.”