Kathmandu. CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli has termed the arrest of vice-chairman Bishnu Poudel as political vendetta and a series of conspiracy. Stating that the government was trying to take revenge, he said that the repressive steps of the government would be confronted firmly.

“This is yet another culmination of the apolitical, undemocratic and naked vendetta that the present ruling party is taking against the opposition parties. It is clear that this repressive step is a continuation of a series of attacks and political conspiracies against me and our CPN (UML),” he said.

Chairman Oli said the arrestees flouted the rule of law and normal legal process despite having a predetermined work schedule. He said that the government did this for cheap popularity despite having other options for interrogation.

“The option that can be questioned at any time or proceed with the process in his presence has been deliberately ignored. “A political figure who holds public office and always respects the law has been wrongfully arrested for cheap stunts and cheap political expediency,” the statement said.

Stating that the incumbent government was heading towards the path of undemocratic, totalitarianism and authoritarianism, Oli warned to stop such activities immediately. He also warned that if the attack on the opposition parties does not stop, the result will not be good. “The present government is heading towards the path of undemocratic, totalitarian and authoritarianism. “We want to warn the government to immediately stop such despicable and vindictive acts targeted at opposition leaders,” the statement said.

Poudel was arrested on Monday when he was participating in the UML’s internal election review and organization restructuring program.