CA Polls: Definite Direction

FOR the first time since the formation of the interim government, Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala unveiled the annual policies and programmes of the government on Wednesday. It was expected as the budget is to be presented in a few days. Now the legislature parliament will hold discussions on it in the coming days.

FocusThe focus was basically on holding the constituent assembly (CA) election on November 22. It will be a landmark for the people and the country. Even Prime Minister Koirala has said that the day will herald a new era. Obviously, the expectations of the people are very high. But the preparations are yet to gather speed for the polls.There are many problems that have to be solved, though. A major issue is bolstering the law and order situation in the country. There are many agitating groups, some of which are involved in violence. On this score, the government has shown some seriousness, and attempts are being made to step up security measures. In this connection, the government is mulling over a new security policy, taking into consideration the situation in the country.Meanwhile, talks are being held with the various agitating groups, and it is hoped that an amicable solution will be reached as per their demands. This must be taken up seriously because without solving the simmering problems, the CA polls cannot be held in a peaceful atmosphere.

For this, the political parties, too, should extend their hands to the government. If they do so, the government will be facilitated in taking the necessary steps to maintain law and order. After a chill for some time, the eight political parties are working together, and there has been increased understanding among them. This solidarity and unity must be maintained till the polls. Though they may be contestants in the polls, the unity ought to be maintained so that the gains made so far does not go to waste.The appointment of envoys is still in a limbo as they were recommended by the earlier government. The main objection has come from the CPN (Maoist). They say that the recommendations were made without consulting them. On this matter, Maoist chief Prachanda had talked to Prime Minister Koirala, and it was agreed that the issue would be resolved soon.

As Premier Koirala mentioned in the government's policies and programmes, the culture of consensus and collaboration for resolving the differences through dialogue and negotiation has become a present day reality. And the country is going in this direction though at times stalemates have arisen.It is based on this that the country has come so far, starting with the agreement of the seven parties and the Maoists. The interim government and the legislature parliament are the result of the collaborative effort of the eight parties. This must not be allowed to break down on trivial pretexts.Whatever is taking place in the country is with the approval of the eight parties. Hence, blaming one or the other leader is not appropriate. Moreover, there are matters that have to be discussed behind closed doors. However, transparency must be maintained regarding the administration of the country. AwarenessNow all confusions regarding the CA polls are over with the announcement of the date. It is the duty of all the political parties to go to all parts of the country to make the people aware of the importance of the CA elections. This is important considering the fact that many people are still unaware as to why a constituent assembly election is necessary for the creation of a better Nepal. The rural parts are where the majority of the population lives and have a greater say in the political setting.

Source: The Rising Nepal, July 6, 2007