TIME WILL TELL

The Kathmandu Post

22 December 2017

TIME WILL TELL

The recently concluded three tiers of elections have been instrumental in the implementation of the new constitution and in giving Nepal a new, federal political structure. Some political parties performed extremely well but some could not perform as expected. Among the major parties, left alliance comprising the UML and CPN (Maoist Centre) was successful in winning the hearts of a majority of the voters. Nepali Congress (NC) was a big loser in both the provincial and federal level polls for a number of reasons. Also, the new political forces such as Bibeksheel Sajha were not entirely able to convince voters either- due to their limited political background or because they fielded candidates who were not as less popular.

Now, the time has come for the left alliance to be fully prepared to lead the country towards peace and prosperity as per their promises made during the election campaign. The days ahead are full of challenges as well as opportunities, especially considering the internal and external political environment. First of all, it is yet to be seen whether the UML and the MC will move forward towards the unification of their parties as agreed at the onset of the provincial and federal elections. If they fail to do so, then the hope of people seeing a strong and stable government will be shattered. The old political scenario of coalition government with poor political vision will continue pushing the nation towards an unstable situation.

Also, the time has come for NC to seriously contemplate its weakness and shortcomings that led to its poor performance (“Youth leaders press NC brass for reforms in party” December 20, Page 3). As compared to the UML, the NC has a poor organizational structure at the grass root level. Once the NC deviated from B.P Koirala’s political philosophy and principle, it has started losing its political image. Nonetheless, it must now play a constructive opposition role in the coming days for the well being of all.

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj

http://kathmandupost.ekantipur.com/printedition/news/2017-12-22/time-will-tell.html