People’s frustration spilling over

The Himalayan Times

11 November 2022

People’s frustration spilling over

Following the promulgation of new constitution in 2015, Nepal adopted a federal system, federating the country into seven provinces. The 12-point agreement between the then seven-party-alliance and the Maoist party was the main basis for converting Nepal into Federal Republic. In fact, the traditional parties seemed to have accepted the proposal for a federal system, sensing time wasn’t right for them to go against the violent street protest and foreign powers’ political interests. Now, some of the leaders, within the major parties have started voicing their concerns about the federal structure. Also, various sections of society which were not in favour of the federal system have now begun raising their voices against the system, considering its poor performance in the last five years. 

Poor performance of provinces has been one of the concerns of the people, and they are now terming it a 'white elephant’. The peace, development and prosperity of any nation are directly influenced by the political stability in that nation. Any nation will face political and social instability when the people are totally dissatisfied with the performance of the government. During the last three decades and particularly in the last five year, the irresponsible and insensible political acts of the major political parties and their respective governments have directly and indirectly contributed to the people’s growing dissatisfaction and frustration towards federalism.

It was unfortunate to read the news “Former minister manhandled in Makawanpur” (THT, 9 November, Page 1) at such a time when the political leaders are engaged in their political campaign for the upcoming federal and provincial elections. This is not a good indication when a former minister is being manhandled in his own constituency. Is it the growing frustration of the local people towards their elected representatives and their parties, who failed to perform as per the people’s satisfaction? Is it the indication of people’s dissatisfaction to see the same old faces who failed to represent them? It is hoped that such incident will not repeat in other parts of the country.

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj