Now, get down to business

The Himalayan Times

21 February 2014

Now, get down to business

The political parties showed their solidarity in nominating UML candidate Subash Nembang as the CA Chairperson once again as reported in “Nembang elected CA chair unopposed” (THT, 19 Feb, Page 1). However, the leaders on the opposition benches had criticized his role in the previous CA and suggested that he should not repeat the same mistakes in CA 2. His decisive role in the coming days will definitely help the CA 2 to effectively and smoothly move ahead in carrying out the prime task of drafting the new constitution within a year.

Nembang’s experiences and academic background would definitely benefit the CA 2 in terms of running its business effectively. However, the sincerity and political commitment of all the CA lawmakers are equally important for helping him to play his role efficiently. He should not let the members run the CA business outside the House undermining its authenticity. All the proceedings related to drafting the new constitution should be discussed in the House. Otherwise, the same mistakes would be repeated by the senior leaders as they had done in the erstwhile CA.

The political awareness of the people has definitely risen in comparison to the previous years for a number of reasons. They want to see the political parties fulfil the promises made during the CA 2 election. They are keen to see the new constitution in their hands within a year. If the leaders of the major political parties fail to draft the new constitution as promised, their existence may remain questionable. I think the people would not let them go easily and that might invite confrontation pushing the nation towards anarchy. It is hoped that this situation would be avoided by fulfilling the promises.

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharjgunj, Kathmandu