KATHMANDU: Diwas Pokhrel has been elected president of the Everest Summiteers Association (ESA) for the association's new term, along with a new executive committee.

The new leadership was elected unopposed at the association's election held on Monday, August 24, at its secretariat in Tilganga, Gaushala, Kathmandu, according to the election committee.

Diki Sherpa has been elected first vice-president and Madan Kumar Chudal second vice-president. Shiv Bahadur Sapkota has been elected general secretary, Chhoki Sherpa secretary and Wangda Sherpa treasurer.

Lakpa Yangji Sherpa and Pasang Lamu Sherpa have been elected as executive committee members.

The election was conducted in accordance with the association's statute, with the elected office-bearers taking responsibility for the organisation representing Everest summiteers and the broader mountaineering community.

Outgoing president Maya Sherpa congratulated the newly elected team and wished them success in their tenure.

The new leadership comes at a time when Nepal's mountaineering sector is facing growing challenges and opportunities, including mountain safety, sustainable expedition practices, climber welfare and the need to strengthen the interests and professional recognition of Nepali mountaineers.

The Everest Summiteers Association has long brought together climbers who have reached the summit of Mount Everest and has been involved in issues concerning mountaineering and the welfare of the climbing community.