ACT SENSIBLY
The
Kathmandu Post
30 October
2016
ACT
SENSIBLY
The
last time the major parties were singing in chorus was in aftermath of the
devastating earthquake last year when they were in a rush to promulgate the
constitution (“Top leaders decide to
work in unison” 27 October, Page 1). It is not uncommon for the major political
parties to come together when they foresee a common problem (or a threat) that
could sully their political image or hurt their interests. It has happened during
the abolition of monarchy, the promulgation of the new constitution, the devastating
earthquake and now the impeachment of Lokman Singh Karki.
It
is praiseworthy to see them working together for the common cause of the nation
and the people. However, they should also be sincere about moving ahead while
making such promises as many of such promises have not been kept in the past. Many
earthquake victims are still living in make-shift camps. And it has been
reported that the top leaders have agreed in principle but not in practice, to
address the demands of the agitating parties which have now warning the Dahal-led
government to either act timely or face another series of protests and even
withdrawal of their support after Chhat.
The
Supreme Court (SC) is yet to give its final verdict on Karki’s case.
Considering this, the top leaders should have waited for the SC’s verdict and
acted accordingly rather than undermining its role. If they claim to be the
champion of democracy, this is the time for them to respect the existence of
one of the key elements of democracy, i.e. the judiciary. If someone violets
the rule of law and abuses their authority, they should be lawfully punished.
Likewise, the SC should precede the hearing of Karki’s misuse of authority and
give its verdict on it. If the political parties try to undermine the existence
of other key elements of democracy, then anarchism will reign supreme. It is
hoped that the top leaders will consider this and act sensibly to prevent
further political complexities.
Rai Biren Bangdel
Maharajgunj
http://kathmandupost.ekantipur.com/printedition/news/2016-10-30/act-sensibly.html
