Kathmandu, April 1 : The democratic, progressive and inclusive panel has announced its candidature for upcoming elections to the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ).  

Amidst a programme in the capital on Wednesday, as many as 11 organizations, including Nepal Press Union, Press Center and Press Chautari Nepal have announced the panel under the leadership of Bipul Pokharel.  

On the occasion, candidate for FNJ President Bipul Pokharel said they have jointly come in the field for safeguarding press freedom, democracy and freedom of expression and the opinion. 

Nepal Press Union (NPU) President Badri Sigdel, Press Center Chairperson Maheswor Dahal, Press Chautari Nepal Vice-chairperson Biswomani Subedi, NPU general secretary Ajaya Babu Shiwakoti and Laxmi Pun of Press Center, among others called for the journalists to vote for the democratic, progressive and inclusive panel against regressive force.    

Also on the occasion, candidate for senior vice-president Dhruba Lamsal has withdrawn his candidacy in support of the candidacy of Ramesh Bista for the same post.    

Likewise, candidates for treasurer and secretary, Prakash Thapa and Nakul Aryal, among others also withdrew their candidacies and called on all to support the democratic panel.