KATHMANDU: President Ram Chandra Paudel has urged political parties, citizens and all stakeholders to align their words and actions with the aspirations of Nepal’s martyrs, saying their sacrifice should guide the nation’s future.

In a message issued on the occasion of Martyrs’ Day on Thursday, President Paudel said the day should serve as a source of inspiration to work towards fulfilling the ideals for which the martyrs gave their lives. He described martyrdom as the highest form of sacrifice made for the welfare of the country and its people.

The President paid tribute to Shukraraj Shastri, Dharmabhakta Mathema, Dashrath Chand and Gangalal Shrestha, along with all known and unknown martyrs who died in the struggle for civil liberties, democracy and national sovereignty.

“Magh 15 is observed every year as Martyrs’ Day in remembrance of the brave individuals who sacrificed their lives in various movements against feudal, autocratic and dictatorial regimes, enabling the Nepali people to become sovereign citizens,” the message said.

President Paudel noted that the martyrs’ aspirations for lasting peace, good governance, development and prosperity are reflected in Nepal’s federal democratic republican system. He added that strengthening and safeguarding this system would be the most meaningful way to honour their sacrifice.