He was one of the leaders of a pro-democracy struggle in 1990 that led to his appointment as prime minister in May 1991, and a government that relaxed its vigilance on the church, and dropped legal cases against Christians accused of proselytizing.
Koirala’s death creates a vacuum during a critical time, with Nepal scheduled to adopt a new constitution by May 28. At least one influential group wants for the country to return to being a Hindu State.