Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that he was deeply saddened by the demise of state assembly member of State No 5 Baldev Pokharel and former mayor of Dharan city Dhyan Bahadur Rai.

Issuing a statement today, the PM has paid heartfelt tribute to the deceased politicians while expressing deep condolence to the bereaved families.

Pokharel was the senior-most member and the leader of the main opposition Nepali Congress in the state assembly. He died of lungs cancer. The PM has recalled the contributions made by Pokharel to society and politics.

Likewise, PM Oli has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Rai while recalling his involvement in the communist movement of the country for the cause of justice, equality, independence and social transformation. Rai was elected the mayor of Dharan municipality in 2049 BS from the then CPN (UML).