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POLITICAL OPTIMISM

The Kathmandu Post
17 September 2017

POLITICAL OPTIMISM

Nepal will fully enter into a federal structure once remaining local polls and upcoming federal and provincial elections are concluded. Third phase local polls in Province 2 are scheduled to take place on September 18 and voting for provincial and federal legislatures will be held on November 26 and December 7. Completion of these elections will also ensure the implementation of the new constitution which will guide the future political course of the Republic of Nepal (“Fallacy of federal facade” Sept 13, Page 6).

In the first two local level elections, the UML has become the leading party. However, it is yet to be seen whether the UML will be able to lead in the upcoming elections. Also, its unyielding stance against the constitution will be tested during the local level elections. Likewise, RJPN’s political strength will be measured among the Madhesi people. If the RJPN fails to garner sufficient votes, it will not be able to elect a sizable number of representatives.

While a federal structure will dramatically increase financial pressure, expectations of people in rural areas will be very high with regard to development programmes. In addition, unwillingness of civil servants to run for a post has started surfacing and appropriate and sufficient laws are yet to come. However, it is hoped that these elections will put Nepal’s democracy on the right track and Nepal will be able to prove that the concept of federalism is not a fallacy.

Rai Biren Bangdel
Maharjgunj


http://kathmandupost.ekantipur.com/printedition/news/2017-09-17/political-optimism.html

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