It is a fact that South Asian countries are likely to be affected by the turmoil and its aftermath in Bangladesh. In this context, it is appropriate to recall the moves taken by BP Koirala some five decades ago. He was of the view that political turmoil cannot be supportive to Nepal’s nationalism. In a critical juncture of history, BP Koirala had taken a bold decision to return home and fight for civil liberties and democracy. BP Koirala also underlined the symbiotic relationship between democracy and nationalism.
South Asia has been going through political turmoil yet again. Elected governments have been ousted. People’s mandates have been undermined. Nepal will likely get affected by the situation.
It should be acknowledged that the ongoing political conflict in South Asia has affected Nepali politics as well. Nepali Congress must delve deep into the crisis. This is why I remember BP Koirala at this moment. Nepali people are deeply worried about the political instability. I want to reiterate that when democracy weakens, the backlash can be seen in the system. When the country’s political situation turns volatile, not only the activities of regressive national forces become rampant but also maneuvers of international power centers to serve their interest become likely.
The Bangladesh incident must have impacted all of us. There are lessons for Nepali politicians that we must uphold values-based and moral politics. We must acknowledge that there are growing frustrations among people toward politics and politicians. Some forces are trying to fuel the frustration into unrest. Nepali Congress, as the largest democratic force, should not overlook the unfolding situations.
In the course of forming the current coalition government between Nepali Congress and CPN-UML, the two parties justified the coalition by invoking the idea of constitutional reforms and political stability. The instability of the government creates a scenario of lack of good governance and accountability. I have long been flagging this issue. I reiterate that the current alliance of big political parties must create a situation of political stability and accountability in governance.
“How long can we run the party in an ad hoc manner? When will we develop the system in the party? If not now, when?”
I have been one of the ardent supporters of ending political instability in the country to assure good governance and accountability. Having said this, the rationale of alliance between two major political forces can be justified only when broader national consensus can be ensured on the agenda of constitution amendment and other national priority issues. In the process, Nepali Congress should not compromise commitments made to the people. Political stability and constitution amendment are possible only when two major parties become accountable to people. But ego-centric working style due to majority numbers and prejudices will not help achieve desired results.
The current Congress-UML coalition government has pledged to promote good governance. But if you look at the selection of ministers at federal as well as provincial levels, this looks like a mockery of the very pledges. Why do we fail to abide by our own pledges?
The government must stand up with people when people face hardships. The responsibility of the government is that it works to alleviate the sufferings of the people affected by floods, landslides, accidents and other natural disasters. I urge the government to engage in humanitarian response without delay.
Relationship between people and the government is a very crucial part of democracy. Equally important is people’s trust in the government and constitutional bodies and government agencies created to deliver services are the ones that are at the front to create an environment of trust.
We must acknowledge that excessive politicization has left government agencies–exceptions apart–in a compromised situation. Despite hardships, some agencies have delivered exemplary works to uphold public trust in government mechanisms, which offers a ray of hope.
“South Asia has been going through political turmoil yet again. Elected governments have been ousted. People’s mandates have been undermined. It is likely that Nepal will also get affected by the situation.“
Persons who are contributing in the national building process should not be penalized because of his or her political ideology. Nepali Congress should work cautiously to ensure that meritocracy is not compromised and no one is penalized for political revenge.
Our provinces are yet to get the rights as envisioned by the constitution. Implementation of fiscal and administrative federalism has suffered setbacks. The coalition government should sincerely work to end this situation.
We must also work to ensure that the essence of federalism reflects in our intra-party statute. We need to delegate more powers to provincial committees of the party.
In terms of party governance, I request the central committee to hold the 15th general convention in the stipulated time. Let us complete the formation of party committees as mandated by the party statute. Let us conclude the issues related to active memberships. These actions are very important to bring the party to the track of democratic course. Delay in holding general conventions will come with price.
How long can we run the party in an ad hoc manner? When will we develop the system in the party? If not now, when? We should also pay attention to the intraparty governance and effectiveness. It is because the current politics is impacted by populism, and some of Nepali Congress leaders have also taken populist turns. Instead of being driven by the party’s values, principles, and ideals, some leaders seem to be guided by populist ideology and social media narrative. We need to be mindful of the results of such populist turn of party’s responsible leaders.
We must accept that the current coalition government is being led by our political rival. If the government fails to live up to the people’s expectations, Nepali Congress will pay the price.
Good governance is something that should be felt by the people. Nepali Congress, as a party, should work to translate its commitment of good governance and accountability into action. This will help to transform Nepali Congress. Party’s actions will also help enhance public trust in the party.
(Dr Shekhar Koirala is senior leader of Nepali Congress. The article is based on remarks delivered by him during the Central Working Committee meeting of Nepali Congress on August 11, 2024.)
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