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A South Korean court ordered life in jail on Thursday for former President Yoon Suk Yeol, after holding him guilty on charges of abuse of authority and masterminding an insurrection, stemming from his December 2024 attempt to impose martial law, Reuters reported. 

Prosecutors had sought the death penalty in the case, closely watched in a deeply divided country. It is the most consequential yet for the ousted leader, whose bid triggered a national political crisis and tested democratic resilience.

In January, prosecutors had said Yoon’s “unconstitutional and illegal emergency martial law undermined the function of the National Assembly and the Election Commission ... actually destroying the liberal democratic constitutional order.”

Prime Minister Sushila Karki has asserted that the government has mobilized its full strength in an effort to conduct the March 5 elections to the House of Representatives in a free, fair, impartial and peaceful environment. 

She emphasized that these efforts are aimed to open a door to a new era of sustainable democratic stability in the country.

PM Karki delivered the statement while addressing a special ceremony organized today at the Army Pavilion in Tundikhel, Kathmandu marking the National Democracy Day-208 BS.

During her address, the Head of the Government expressed her confidence that the Parliament and government to be formed after this election will further advance the democratic system making it more dynamic, result-oriented and accountable to the people.

PM Karki argued that a strong democracy does not suppress discontent; rather, it embraces as an opportunity to reform. 

"Democracy should not be viewed merely as a technical change in the form of governance. In fact, it is a way of life which must be reflected in everything from expressions on the internet to the price of vegetables cooked in the kitchen," observed the PM.

The Septuagenarian leader articulated that democracy is not just about procedures; it must deliver results. 

While emphasizing that the rule of law is essential, she mentioned that keeping citizens entangled in the name of 'endless' processes and subjecting them to delays, harassment and distress in the name of procedure does not constitute the practice of democracy.

 "It is rather mis-governance," she underlined.

President Ram Chandra Paudel attended a special ceremony held today at the Army Pavilion in Tundikhel, Kathmandu to mark National Democracy Day-2082 BS.

President Paudel participated in the event along with First Lady Sabita Paudel. 

In the ceremony organized by the National Democracy Day Main Celebration Committee, the Nepal Army offered a ceremonial salute in honor of President Paudel who is also the Supreme Commander of the Nepali Army. 

During the celebration, various cultural performances were showcased reflecting the country's rich culture and heritage, including tableaux, march-past, dances and musical presentation among others. 

The celebration was attended by Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister Sushila Karki, Chairperson of the National Assembly Narayan Prasad Dahal, ministers, Heads and representatives of various diplomatic missions in Nepal, senior government officials and distinguished members of society among others.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (February 19, 2026) said artificial intelligence must be democratised and become a tool for inclusion and empowerment, particularly for the Global South, PTI reported. 

Addressing the India AI Impact Summit, Mr. Modi said the expo is taking place in India, which represents one sixth of humanity, a country with the world's largest young population and a hub of the largest tech talent pool.

"Artificial intelligence marks a transformative chapter in human history. India is not just a part of the AI revolution, but is leading and shaping it," he said in the presence of world leaders and CEOs of leading companies at the Summit, according to PTI. 

Former King Gyanendra Shah has paid tribute to the known and unknown martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the establishment of democracy.

Through a video message on the occasion of Democracy Day, the former monarch stated that poverty and instability are Nepal's main adversaries.

"It is the time to reflect on what the changes brought about by past movements and struggles have truly given to the country and the people. There is a growing trend of seeking rights without considering duties. Therefore, everyone must think seriously," the former King said.

Former King Shah emphasized that the culture of one Nepali considering another Nepali an enemy should be put to an end.

Two persons died and two others were injured when three motorcycles collided with each other at Khila in Ishworpur Municipality, Sarlahi on Wednesday. 

Deputy Superintendent of Police Saroj Rai, spokesperson at the District Police Office, Sarlahi, said that the deceased have been identified as Mukesh Raya (35) and Ram Gyan Raya (30) of Mirchaiya, Haripurwa Municipality-9, Sarlahi. 

Similarly, Bikram Raya (22) and Ram Biswas Raya (42) of Haripurwa Municipality-9 were injured in the accident. They are receiving treatment at the Model Hospital in Lalbandi.

Meanwhile, Police said that they have impounded the motorcycles with Indian registration numbers BR 30 AR 3458, BR 30 AP 3809, and HP 55 C 0623 and started an investigation.

The price of gold has increased by Rs 4, 300 per tola in the domestic market on Thursday. 

According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the precious yellow metal is being traded at Rs 304, 700 per tola today. 

Similarly, the silver is being traded at Rs 5, 060 per tola today.

India beat the Netherlands by 17 runs in their final Twenty20 World Cup Group A match on Wednesday in Ahmedabad as the co-hosts and defending champions maintained their perfect record heading into the Super Eight stage, Reuters reported. 

After winning the toss and opting to bat, India posted 193-6 on a slow pitch on the back of Shivam Dube's 66 off 31 balls in the middle order while Logan van Beek finished with figures of 3-56.

In response, the already-eliminated Dutch side managed only 176-7 after Varun Chakravarthy picked up three wickets for just 14 runs while Dube also took two wickets to win the player of the match award, according to Reuters.