Nepal: CUPPEC elects first woman president

The BWI-affiliated Central Union of Painters, Plumbers and Electro and Construction Workers’ Union (CUPPEC) in Nepal made history by electing its first woman president a day before the celebration of International Women’s Day.  

Woman trade unionist Shanta Basnet was elected by the majority of the union on the occasion of its 7^th National Congress last 5-7 March at Pokhara, Nepal.

Basnet thanked her fellow union members for their trust and support, and for electing her in the lead up to the International Women’s Day.

“This is both a moment of pride and a huge responsibility on my part. I am optimistic that together we will collectively fight for and uphold the rights of Nepali workers, including those who are working abroad as migrant workers. I hope my election to this position will inspire more women workers to join unions and take up leadership positions,” she said. 

Carrying the theme “Social Security and Secured Workplace,” CUPPEC’s congress was attended by over 350 delegates from across the country. They deliberated on key issues confronted by workers in the industries where BWI is present at. 

A number of international delegates were present in the CUPPEC Congress such as representatives from the ACV-CSC BIE, the Swedish Painters’ Union, TEUPM, and BWI South Asia and the Asia-Pacific. BWI General Secretary Ambet Yuson also sent his solidarity greetings. 

Outgoing CUPPEC President Naranath Luitel presented the union’s work and accomplishments. Some of these are the COVID-19 assistance and relief efforts to workers, policy advocacy, organising infrastructure projects, promoting safe migration, skills development and gender sensitisation.