Where are we heading?
The Himalayan Times
17 June 2021
It is unfortunate to see Nepal facing citizenship problems for decades due to the vested interests of the political parties and their upper level leaders who continue to use the citizenship bill for personal political gains.
This time, PM Oli tried to use this bill through an ordinance for his political gain at a time when his government is at risk of losing power. Unfortunately, the Supreme Court (SC) ”Apex court's stay on citizenship ordinance raises questions” (THT, June 12, Page 1) put a break on it, failing his clandestine political move. But, on the other hand, genuine citizens have been barred from getting citizenship because of the SC’s stay order. This bill was one of the demands of the JSP-N before joining the government. Now, it remains to be seen what will happen to its other demands. Will the JSP-N ministers continue to stay in the government even if their demands are not fulfilled?
Also, the recent press statement of the five former prime ministers “Five former PMs call for joint struggle against Oli’s unconstitutional move” (THT, June 13, Page 2) blaming the PM for misusing his authority by undermining the constitution has been the talk of the town, and the people are making fun of them in the social media, accusing them of engaging in unnecessary political propaganda. A newly-appointed minister has blamed the oppositions for hatching conspiracies to corner the prime minister and bring down his government. It seems that the on-going political polarisation between the ruling party and the opposition alliance might end in a political disaster, which can be costly for them and the nation.
Rai Biren Bangdel
Maharajgunj
