BNO Gurkha Association UK Elects New Leadership at Historic First Convention
LONDON, 12 August 2006 – The British National Overseas (BNO) Gurkha Association UK successfully concluded its historic first convention today at Greenwich London College. The assembly marked a significant milestone in the organisation’s fight for citizenship rights and resulted in the election of a new central leadership team.
A Call for Solidarity and Rights
The convention’s opening session focused heavily on the ongoing struggle for British citizenship. Special guest Santosh Thapa of 'Sutra & Co. Management Consultancy' highlighted a stark discrepancy in the application process, noting it as "ironic" that while many BNOs in Hong Kong have already secured citizenship, those residing within the UK continue to face hurdles. Thapa emphasised that resolving this issue requires increased unity among all BNO holders.
Chief Guest Vijay Bikram Lingden, Advisor to the BNO Gurkha Association Hong Kong, echoed these sentiments, assuring the assembly that "victory in the struggle for BNO rights is certain". He urged those who have already achieved citizenship to remain active in the movement to support fellow members who are still waiting for theirs.
New Executive Mandate
The second session transitioned into formal organisational business, where outgoing Secretary Khusi Limbu presented an updated organisational report to the membership. Following the report, the assembly moved to elect a new 9-member Central Executive Committee.
Khusi Limbu was elected unopposed as the new President of the Association. Joining him in the core leadership are:
- Vice President: Gyam Kishan Gurung
- General Secretary: Purnahang Limbu
- Treasurer: Dipen Siwa
The executive board is further supported by members Tipen Siwa, Kishor Kumar Limbu, Suk Bahadur Gurung, Papil Kumar Newar, Nirmal Limbu, Reshamchandra Gurung, and Yograj Bura.
Transition and Future Outlook
The new administration was officially sworn in by Election Board Chairman Vijay Bikram Lingden. The team received formal congratulations via scarves and bouquets sent by Lakshmi Prasad Rai, President of the BNO Gurkha Association Hong Kong, signifying strong cross-border ties between the chapters.
As the convention closed, outgoing chair Padam Bahadur Thapa announced the dissolution of the previous committee and pledged his support for the upcoming BNO Hong Kong convention scheduled for September. The newly elected UK committee is set to hold its first official meeting on Sunday, 20 August.