GENUINE VOICES
The Kathmandu Post
20 May 2016
GENUINE VOICES
The possibility of political consensus
between the ruling and disgruntled parties seem unlikely in the near future with
PM Oli terming the continuing Madhes agitation a farce. However, the agitating
parties are continuing with their ongoing Kathmandu-centric agitation (“Encouraged,
protesters to keep stir flame alive” 18 May, Page 3). If this situation
continues to persist due to PM Oli’s stubborn nature and acerbic comments, serious
political confrontation between the ruling and agitating parties is possible,
thereby pushing the country into another political uncertainty.
It is therefore imperative for the
political leaders to engage in productive dialogue and resolve the current political
and constitutional crisis rather than wasting time feeling the pulse of each
other. The Janajati and other disadvantaged groups have also joined hands with the
Madhes based parties to exert pressure on the government. Had the government been
wise and serious during the Madhes based struggle after the promulgation of the
constitution, the current Kathmandu-centric political struggle would not be
taking place. If the government does not show any flexibility in its political
stand now, the possibility of political chaos in the near future cannot be
ruled out.
The ruling parties continue to claim that the
new constitution was endorsed by 90 percent Constitution Assembly members and
is one of the best constitutions in the world. If it is really so, why have the
Madhesis, Tharus, Janajatis, Muslims and other disadvantaged groups been
continuously protesting against some of the provisions in the statute? If this constitution cannot be rewritten as
claimed by the government, why does it not show any interest in amending it, as
it had done before to address the genuine demands of disgruntled parties rather
than choosing to suppress their voices using excessive force, which is totally
against the universal norms and values of democracy.
Rai Biren Bangdel
Maharjgunj.
http://kathmandupost.ekantipur.com/printedition/news/2016-05-20/voice-of-the-people-20160520083649.html
