POLITICAL PROBLEMS
The Kathmandu Post
29 May 2015
POLITICAL PROBLEMS
Relief and reconstruction in the aftermath
of devastating earthquake seem to be taking place in full swing in the affected
areas. But the government, semi-governmental organizations, individuals,
I/NGOs, private organizations, donor agencies and political parties are all
engaged separately in these activities, the government has not still been able
to coordinate these activities. As a result, the grievances of not receiving
relief and shelter materials continue to be reported in the news media. It is
sad and unfortunate to see these people still being deprived of basic materials
when the monsoon is fast approaching.
There also seems to be competitions going
on among the major political parties in reaching out to the affected people
using their cadres and volunteers, albeit late, to show their presence as illustrated
by Ajaya Bhadra Khanal (“Partners in crime” 27 May, Page 6). If these
activities are not properly coordinated and monitored by the government, the
chances of the affected people being politically victimized will remain high,
inviting social disintegration. This situation could also be detrimental for
the political parties.
It was reported that there were protests in
Sindhupalchowk, Rautahat and Makawanpur. Considering this, the major political
parties need to be more sensitive. The post-quake scenario in the affected
area, in terms of coordinating rescue and relief operations, had clearly shown an
absence of local governing bodies and people’s representatives. Keeping this in
mind, all the political parties should learn the lessons and come to an
agreement to go for local elections.
Rai Biren Bangdel
Maharajgunj
