Patriarchal mindset

The Himalayan Times

23 January 2020

Patriarchal mindset

People have seen many political ups and downs in the past that always remained to be their prime concerns for many good reasons. The Maoist’s ten year long war, the second Jana Andolan, promulgation of the new constitution, election of three tiers of elections were the turning point in Nepal’s political history. Political uncertainty in the country continued to bother the people in many sense until the general elections held under the new constitution. People had participated in elections, hoping to see political stability in the country resulting in peace and prosperity in the long run.

 

All the political parties, just before drafting the new constitution, used to talk a lot about the inclusive democracy, which would install a truly independent and democratic system of governance with equitable participation of different communities, women, Dalits, Indigenous peoples and Madhesis.

 

The recent political drama staged by the ruling party to nominate its candidate for the vacant position of HoR speaker was very sad and utterly discouraging “Speaker election on January 26” (THT, January 21, Page 1). Had it decided to nominate the then Deputy Speaker Shiva Maya Tumbahangphe as its Speaker, it would have been a wonderful opportunity for the ruling party which never gets tired of talking about uplifting marginalised people. It was not surprising to read the news report “Patriarchy stronger than monarchy, says Tumbanangphe after quitting” (THT, January 26, Page 1).

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj.