Bhandari open to return to party politics if nation demands

KATHMANDU: Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari has stated that she may return to party politics if the nation’s needs demand it.

Speaking to journalists in Biratnagar on Monday, Bhandari clarified that she has not yet decided to join any political party.

“I have been engaged in discussions on critical issues such as education, healthcare, access to clean water, climate change and the compulsion of youth to seek employment abroad. If addressing these agendas requires me to return to party politics, I would take a decision at that time,” Bhandari said.

Bhandari arrived in Biratnagar on Monday to participate in the establishment day of Itahari-based Janata Secondary School.

“The presidency is not an apolitical position. I am active in national politics, engaging in discussions on overarching national agendas with all stakeholders. If fulfilling these agendas necessitates party affiliation, I will decide accordingly,” Bhandari said.

Responding to questions about her aspirations to lead UML in the future, she said: “Having grown up and evolved within UML, it would naturally be my choice. However, no discussions on this matter have taken place yet.”