Unity For Democracy

GENERAL Secretary of the Nepali Congress and Minister for Peace and Reconstruction Ram Chandra Poudel has said that freedom, justice and solidarity are necessary to create a new social paradigm and to strengthen democracy in Nepal. Addressing an interaction programme in Kathmandu on Tuesday, Minister Poudel called upon all the political forces and the people to extend a helping hand and work together for the common cause of the nation and the people. As observed by Minister Poudel, economic, political, social and cultural freedom is crucial for overall social change. The present situation was created by the unprecedented unity and solidarity of the eight political parties, civil society, professional groups and general people through the April uprising last year. The achievements of Jana Andolan II are yet to be institutionalised and consolidated. Thus, stronger unity is necessary until the ongoing political and peace process is complete.

The common national agenda at present is the election to a constituent assembly, which would write a new constitution and end the present political uncertainty. All the political parties are committed to holding the constituent assembly elections as early as possible. But there are certain things that need to be completed before going to the polls. Elections should be held in a free, fair and peaceful manner so that people can cast their ballot without any kind of fear, which alone would reflect the genuine feelings and will of the people. Moreover, some regressive elements are trying to obstruct and sabotage the present political process and constituent assembly elections. The conspiracies of the regressive elements can be defeated and foiled only by the meaningful and strong unity and solidarity of the eight political parties and the people. This unity must be kept intact to achieve the political goal and accomplish the mandate of Jana Andolan II. The election to a constituent assembly is the only way out for the present political crisis. For this, the political parties need to sit together and decide on the new dates for holding the polls and ensure that they are free and fair. It is not the time to blame one another. If the unity of the eight parties is broken, it would only help the reactionary and regressive elements. People want peace, stability and development, which can be ensured only through the unity and collective approach of the democratic forces. Thus, the political parties, instead of pointing fingers at each other, need to take collective responsibility. This is the spirit of a democratic and coalition culture, which alone would serve the interest of the nation and people.

Source: The Rising Nepal, May 3, 2007