Maintaining
Relationship between China and India on the Basis of equi-distance
is challenging <Top>
President of CPN (UML) Jhalanath Khanal has said that
Nepal cannot maintain equi-distance relationship between
India and China in a programme on Foreign Policy Challenges
of Nepal organised by Institute of Foreign Affairs in
Cooperating with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung. He said that
it would be both opportunity and challenge for nice to
listen that Nepal maintains equi-distance relationship
between China and India - the two most powerful country
of the world but it is very difficult to translate into
practice. It has both challenges as well as opportunities.
Relationship can be established on the basis of equality
but equi-distance is very difficult. Internally we have
changed a lot and our foreign policy should be designed
in tune with our internal demands. He further said that
Nepalese policy should be guided by keeping the changes
brought about by globalisation, science and technology,
the renaissance of Asia and positive and negative impacts
these factors can have over South Asia in General and
Nepal in particular. We also have to keep in mind the
relationship between the two neighbours while designing
our own foreign policy.
Acting foreign secretary Dr. Durga Bhattarai said that
foreign ministry alone cannot contribute towards this
end and it needs support from all sectors. Executive Director
of IFA Dr. Prof. Gopal Pokhrel has said that IFA is continuously
holding dialogue on foreign policy issues in the challenged
political context.
Dr Shmabu R. Simkhada and former diplomat Madhvji Shrestha
presented papers in the programme. The course book for
the diplomats and all a book covering all the Agreements/Treaties
reached between Nepal and India since 1990s till today
have been unveiled by the chief guest Mr Jhalanath Khanal.
Source: Gorkhapatra Nepali National Daily (29
December 2009)
Doubt Over
Time Implementation of Constitution <Top>
Minister of Peace and Reconstruction Rakam Chemjong has
said that the constitution may not be written in time
given the current pace of momentum it has taken in a programme
organised by National Media Centre in Cooperation with
Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung in Kathmandu on state-building
as a mechanism for conflict resolution.
Although there is no doubt on the competency of CA members
but they have failed to rise above the party and this
has been reflected through the voting process sin the
different CA committees.
The deficit of trust among political parties is the biggest
problem said Minister Chemjong. He further elaborated
that while UCPN(Maoist) is feared from the fact that army
integration process will not be in a way it wanted and
constitution writing process will not be accomplished
in time if the government is not formed under its leadership
whereas other political parties are worried from the fact
that if the government is formed under the Maoist leadership
they will demoralise Nepal Army and establish one party
rule.
The constitution writing process cannot be extended beyond
the stipulated time frame said former speaker Daman Nath
Dhungana. What can be done, under these circumstances,
is the selection of another CA through election but for
that they have to prove that the current CA has become
"meaningless". The can be done through fresh
election only as the current CA was established through
election. He further said that in all political parties
there are anti peace elements who are working as a catalyst
for creating trust deficit in political parties. Dhungana
said that constitution can only be written when there
are common agendas, common interests within the political
parties on the issues of national importance like army
integration.
Legal expert Kashi Raj Dahal has said that peace has
been destabilised in Nepal primarily because of political
instability, weak social movement, and weak state-mechanism.
If transitional period is not managed there is a danger
that Nepal will become a failure state. Political leaders
should rise above the partican interest and focus on constitution
writing process, said Dahal.
Dev Raj Dahal, Head of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Nepal
Office has said that Nepal is moving towards transformation.
The increased public participation in politics can contribute
to address all sorts of problem.
Source: Gorkhapatra Nepali National Daily (28
December 2009)
House opened
after discussion with India <Top>
Kathmandu (Rajdhani Reporter)
Former Speaker Daman Dhungana has claimed that the disruption
of the house has resumed after discussing with India in
a programme organised by National Media Centre in cooperation
with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung - a German Political Foundation
in Nepal. He further disclosed that while drafting twelve
point agreements - agreement were reached to delete the
point of "democratisation" of Maoists by Indian
Ambassador Rakesh Sood and CPN(Maoist) Chairman Prachanda
. Dhungana further claimed that the thirteenth point of
understanding that was reached between mainstream political
parties and the the Maoist in 12 November, 2005 was that
not to repeat the same mistakes done by the political
parties who have exercised parliamentary business in the
past and speedy democratisation of Maoists but that point
was deleted later. What was written then was only the
"democratisation" of Nepal Army and both points
- democratisation of Maoists and no repetition of the
same mistakes as done in the past by the parties, were
delted .
Indian ambassador met Prachanda on Sunday morning and
expressed his concerned about possible anti-India movments.
According to the sources, by targeting India, Maoist
has decided to go for a movement in favour of national
sovereignty and Ambassador Sood also enquired about this
but Prachadna has clarified that no such decision has
been taken to launch movement against India.
Ambassador Sood has also enquired about the Indian flgh
being thrown out in the programme organised in Basantapur
on Paush 1st , by Newa Autonomos State. While Prachanda
enquired about the recent remarks of the India Army Chief
Deepak Kapoor on the position of Maoist combatants. He
said that Delhi should made public about the statement
made by General Kapoor. Gen. Kapoor in a meeting with
Nepali General Chhatra Man Gurung in New Delhi has said
that Maoists combatants should not be integrated in Nepal
Army.
Immediately after meeting Prachanda, Ambassador Sood
flew to New Delhi.
Source: Rajdhani Nepali National Daily (28 December
2009)
Peace can
be established through women's participation in decision
making level <Top>
Experts have said that peace and development can flourish
in the country if women's participation is increased in
every decision making level process. In a programme organised
by The Telegraph Weekly in cooperation with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
on "women and Peace" experts have said that
media can play catalytic role to boost of the capacity
of women for the meaningful participation in peace and
development process of the country.
Two young women journalist Rukmani Maharjan and Sharada
Rijal presented papers in the programme highlighting the
issues of women and political process in Nepal. Narendra
Upadhyay, Chief Editor, of The Telegraph Weekly spoke
about the objective of the seminar.
Dr. Prem Sharma, Tanka Panta, Dev Raj Dahal, NIschal
Pandey, NIraj UPadhyay, Mukunda Subedi, Punjita Pradhan,
Rabindra Bhattari, VIdya Chapagain, CA meber Nabodita
Chaudhary spoke in the programme.
Source: Nepal Samacharpatra Daily (27 December
2009)
Federal
State Objectionable <Top>
Chairman of the Constitutional Committee of the CA Nilambar
Acharya has said that developing federals state from the
street by UCPN (Maoist) is objectionable and it has obstructed
constitution writing process. Serious issues like this
will jeopardise CA writing process indefinitely said Acharya
in a programme organised by Centre for Labour and Social
Studies. He further said that constitution can still be
written in time if political parties force consensus on
major issues of national importance and exhibit honesty,
though only eight out of 11 CA committees have submitted
preliminary report on constitution.
The extension of CA period depends on the "character"
of political parties (if they improve it) otherwise it
is useless. Acharya was vocal, open and clear on the constitutional
process in Nepal and said that constitution cannot be
promulgated in time Jestha 14, 2067.
Thematic committees also have not been able to sort out
differences and CA knows where the bone of contention
lies and should explore opportunities to address them
from within the CA. But declaring federalism through street
is posing a threat to the CA and constitutional writing
process, reiterated Acharya.
Source: Rajdhani Nepali National Daily (18 December
2009)
Workshop
held Organising DHL and CEPL Workers in Nepal <Top>
Nepal
Organising CEPL workers in Nepal showed positive sign,
since many of logistics workers are recognizing necessity
of trade union.
During the workshop, Brother Kedar Nath Dahal, President
of Nepal Costume and Airport Allied Workers Union, said
that the union has confident to organise CEPL workers
very soon, since some actions are taking place to contacts
with workers who are engaging in these sector.
Followed above postal seminar, FES/UNI-Apro Workshop
on organizing DHL and other CEPL companies in Kathmandu
Nepal on 27-28 November 2009 where participated around
40 colleagues from CEPL companies including DHL, TNT and
post offices.
Mr. Dev Raj Dahal, Head of FES Nepal Office, introduced
the role and activities of FES and pointed out how can
DHL and postal workers cope with this fast growing sector
and reap benefits? How can unions be organized in CEPL
sectors to foster worker’s rights and social security
provisions?
Brother Roh Joon-hwan, Coordinator for UNI-Apro Post
and Logistics sector, stressed the importance of organizing
in logistics sector since that is the UNI’s priority
for protection of their own interests at the opening.
Mr. Tilak Jung Khadka, Officer Manager of Sushma Koirala
Memeorial Study Circle, lectured on basic activities such
as how to form union, how to register union, what are
the regal aspect including government rules, laws and
practical things to do.
Bro. Roh Joon-hwan, made a presentation on the Situation
of CEPL companies in Asia and the Pacific and Bro. K.
Regavendran, General Secretary of NFPE, also inspired
to organize CEPL workers in Nepal through his presentation
namely Organising DHL and CEPL.
At the group discussion, participants were identified
problems as lack of trade union education, influence of
political parties, lack of understanding trade union benefits
and job insecurity etc.
Also they concluded awareness campaign, formation of
ad hoc committee and organize a national conference etc
as their strategies.
For more information, please contact with Brother Roh
Joon-hwan jhroh@uni-apro.org.sg
New Constitution
is fully a political document: Justice Sharma <Top>
The senior most justice of the Supreme Court Hon. Anup
Raj Sharma has said that the upcoming constitution will
completely be a political document. He said this in a
discussion programme organised on Constitutionalism and
Constitution in the capital by the administrative court
of Nepal in cooperation with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung.
He also warned provoked political parties that if they
are really efficient they should write the constitution
within the stipulated time-frame.
The upcoming constitution should address all the societal
problems including problems related to language, religion,culcutre
failing to do so will result in further crisis in the
country. This is primarily important for Nepal as many
languages are spoken and different religion practiced
within one particular region. However, political parties
should also address their internal problems only than
constitution can be written in time.
Ramchandra Poudyal of Nepali Congress has said that the
hangover of "totalitarianism' cannot and will not
be helpful to write the constitution. He also blamed that
UCPN(Maoist) is coming up with different obstacles merely
to appease their combatants and the declaration of "federal
state" is one of them.
Ishwor Pokhrel from UML said that if political parties
take their own positions , they cannot have compromise.
The political interest of one particular political party
cannot establish civilian supremacy. We are crossing the
boundary of constitution and than talking about civilian
supremacy, said Mr Pokhrel.
UCPN (Maoist) lawmaker Khim Lal Devkota said that without
correcting president's step , constitution cannot be written.
Those who cannot protect interim constitution cannot write
the constitution., said Mr. Devkota.
Justice of the Supreme Court Bal Ram KC, Dr. Haribansa
Tripathi, judge of the Appellate Court of Patan and Constitutional
Expert Kashi Raj Dahal presented papers in the programme.
Presenting his paper, constitutional expert Mr Dahal said
that political leaders should seek for the solution within
themselves.
Source: Rajdhani Nepali National Daily (27 November
2009)
The Big Political
Parties are engaged in Conspiracy: Poudyal <Top>
In a programme organised by the Administrative Court
of Nepal, the political leaders and constitutional experts
have said that political consensus among political parties
is necessary to write a constitution in time.
Ram Chandra Poudel of Nepali Congress has said that the
constitution writing process is experiencing various obstacles
primarily because Maoists are changing their words time
and again. Maoist's should posit democratic behaviour
in a democratic set up. Federal states are being against
the spirit of Constituent Assembly and democratic principle
said Poudel. He questioned whether India has given the
right of self-determination in Kashmir and China in Tibet?
Conflict should not be generated in the name of right
to self-determination.
In the name of civil supremacy Maoist are trying to establish
their own supremacy blamed Poudel. He said that focus
should be one the freedom of people and nation and how
can a nation progress and federalism should be designed
accordingly.
Likewise Ishwor Pokhrel General Secretary of UML has
said that there is a huge challenge before political parties
of writing constitution in time but the consensus among
political parties in jeopardy which is must for this purpose.
Democratic Constitution cannot be drafted if disagreement
persists among political parties. He further question
agreement cannot be found within the disagreement but
some of the political parties are working against the
agreement reached in the past. He further questioned "is
civilian supremacy based on the self-interest of one political
party"?
Upendra Yadav of Madeshi Jana Adhikar Forum said that
conspiracy is being hatched to halt the constitution writing
and federal process and big political parties are engaged
in this process. State is still ignoring issues of Madeshi,
lamented Yadav.
Khem Lal Devkota of UCPN (Maoist) blamed that polices
are being made to isolate Maoists
Source: Gorkhapatra Daily (27 November 2009)
Building
bridges for peace in Nepal: A major undertaking <Top>
Hari Bansh Jha
Recently, the Centre for Economic and Technical Studies
in cooperation with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung of Germany
organized two-day national seminar at Centre for Constitutional
Dialogue, Kathmandu on the theme “Building Bridges
for Peace in Nepal.” If the views expressed by the
seminar participants representing people from various
walks of life including the intellectuals, journalists,
academicians and civil society are the reflections of
people’s perceptions, it gave some genuine messages
for the establishment of sustainable peace in the country.
Major themes that were discussed during the six sessions
of the seminar covered wider issues related to peace in
Nepal like the constitution as a mechanism of peace, religion
and peace, federalism and economic development, strengths
and weaknesses of peace process, challenges of journalists
and the role of media in peace process.
Many of the participants in the seminar held the leadership
in major political parties of the country incapable to
give a new direction to the country. People in leadership
positions had neither vision nor dedication for the welfare
of the state. Petty vested interests dominated the field
of politics. People’s representatives were more involved
in the game of for dropping or forming the governments.
They behaved in a way as if the people were for them and
not that they were for the people. This was also due to
the fact that the political parties in general turned
into an industrial ventures rather than institutions of
cadres willing to work for the welfare of the country.
Like in any other commercial ventures, many of the people
in positions in political parties in general think and
act with ‘investment’ and ‘profit’
motive, which is posing danger to the nascent democratic
system and long-term peace in the country. Can there be
more ominous scene than this that certain percentage of
Constituent Assembly members got innings in the Assembly
elections in 2008 solely by greasing the party leadership
through money?
The sole purpose for which the Constituent Assembly was
created was to write constitution in which people should
have developed a sense of ownership. Does the behaviour
of major political parties show if at all they were interested
in producing such constitution to the people? Issues other
than writing the constitution are in priority for them.
The 601-member of Constituent Assembly is more a liability
rather than asset for many of the Nepalese as they are
not proving worth for writing the constitution.
However, it would not be justified to hold the political
actors responsible for all the ills in the country. They
had made certain efforts in addressing the decade-long
insurgency movement beginning from 1996, abolishing monarchial
system and paving way for the restructuring of the state
and formation of federal states. And they were successful
in meeting some of these goals.
There are many hurdles in the country that need to be
resolved to give concrete shape to the concept of federalism.
One of such hurdles is that there has been no consensus
among the political actors on the criteria of forming
the states and sharing of resources between the centre
and the states. However, considering
the present situation it would be difficult to restructure
the states if the criteria are based on linguistic and/or
ethnic factors. In the present situation, it would be
most appropriate if the states are formed on the basis
of geo-economic factors. In that case, there should be
provision for the formation of only three states in Nepal
i.e. the Terai state, the hill state and the Himalayan
state.
In each of the three states, there could be provision
for the formation of at least five sub-autonomous regions.
The nation might reap the benefits of comparative advantage
if there are three states and fifteen sub-autonomous regions.
Such a provision will satisfy all those who advocate for
the formation of states east to west on ecological basis
and also those who favour the formation of certain units
north to south. The states would be formed east to west
and the sub-autonomous regions will be formed north to
south.
In order to make the peace process sustainable, the agreements
made by the governments with the rebel groups or other
conflicting groups needed to be implemented. Anomalies
created in the implementation of agreements might create
confusion and erase people’s faith in the government
and their own representatives.
It was concluded that the failure of the political actors
in Nepal was a major challenge for all those who wished
to give a new direction to the country and make the life
of the people in the country better. However, it was felt
that the vacuum created in leadership in various political
parties might be filled by the intellectuals, academicians,
journalists, civil society groups and all those who really
loved Nepal and the Nepalis by forging an alliance.
Dr. Jha is Professor of Economics and Executive Director
of Centre for Economic and Technical Studies in Nepal.
Source: The Himalayan Times (12 November 2009)
Political
Parties should Unite - Constitutional Expert Dahal
<Top>
Constitutional expert Kashi Raj Dahal
has said that political parties' unification is necessary
to write a constitution in time. If political parties
failed to unite, constitution cannot be drafted in time
said Dahal in a two-day seminar organised by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
on State-building and constitutional question in Rajbiraj.
Political parties are engaged in mathematical game to
stay in power and have put aside constitution writing
agenda.
Speaking in the same programme chief
justice of Rajbiraj Appellate Court Ali Akbar Mikrani
also underlined the need of consensus among political
parties. Chief District Officer of Saptari Ram Prasad
Ghimire, Chief of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, and Nepal
Office also spoke in the programme.
Source: Rajbiraj Daily Newspaper
(31 October 2009)
Doubt over
the promulgation of Constitution on time <Top>
Constitutional experts and political scientists agree
that it is difficult to promulgate constitution in time
because senior leaders are setting aside main issues of
the nation and indulged in power struggle. This doubt
was exposed in a two-day seminar organised by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
on "Building Modern State and Constitutional Questions"
at Rajbiraj.
Speaking at the occasion Constitutional
expert Kashi Raj Dahal said that if constitution is not
made in time state may move towards failure. Political
parties must be alert on time. Constitution is essential
for strengthening sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Out of 11 Thematic Committees only six committee have
submitted their concept papers. Consensus has not been
reached over federalism, governance, human and fundamental
rights and the inclusive democracy. The six committees
have submitted their reports on the basis of majority
rather than consensus. If constitution is not made on
time the political parties might face legitimacy crisis.
In Afghanistan, Iraq, East Timor etc
countries due to weakness of state institutions, state
failure is occurring. In Nepal also deteriorating human
rights conditions and culture of impunity are affecting
the political institutions. We are not failed yet says
Dahal but increasingly becoming weak. Before CA political
process has been operating under consensus but now after
it moving into confrontation and majoritarian way.
In the same seminar political analyst
Dev Raj Dahal said that the constitution must muster the
consensus of all identities and groups. Consensus should
be the rule. Political stability has been affected by
the lack of consensus.
Chief guest of the seminar Chief Justice
of Appellate Court of Rajbiraj Ali Akbar Mikrani expressed
doubt over the drafting of constitution because of power
struggle of leaders. He said that on federalism even German
and Indian scholars could not satisfy him. Leadership's
greed for power has weakened the state. It is remittance
that is helping the Nepalese economy. Due to open border
with India people are sustaining their lives. The success
of the constitution of one state cannot be an example
for another.
Source:News Today Rajbiraj
(31 October 2009)
Political
Mechanism to break deadlock <Top>
Gorkhapatra Correspondent
Kathmandu, October 6
President of Nepal Sadbhavana Party
(Anandi Devi) Sarita Giri said that due to semi-democracy
in the country conflict is escalating. She said this in
a seminar on "Building Bridges of Peace in Nepal"
organized by Center for Economic and Technical Studies
(CETS) and Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) in Kathmadu.
As a Constituent Assembly member President
Giri said that unless political mechanism is developed
and political parties are united it would be difficult
to solve the problems of the nation.
The leader of Nepali Congress and former
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Chitra Lekha Yadav said that
unless leaders are capable of translating the commitments
made during elections to the people into action it would
be difficult to draft the constitution.
Chief Guest of the seminar Swami Chandresh
added that despite people desire for the establishment
of peace leaders of various political parties are playing
with their own rhythm and putting the people in illusion.
For peace leaders have to struggle very hard because it
is a difficult process. In the two-day seminar Director
of CETS Dr. Hari Bansa Jha, Dr. Uma Shankar, Keshav Chaulagain
presented various papers on various themes.
Source: Gorkhapatra Daily
(7 October 2009)
Democracy,
Post-Conflict Governance and National Security <Top>
Author: Ananda P Srestha and Hari
Uprety (Eds)
Publisher: Nepal Foundation for Advanced Studies (NEFAS)
Price: Rs 200
Pages: 132
The book is a compilation of the proceedings
of a two-day seminar hosted by the NEFAS in co-operation
with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung. The book is a useful contribution
to the discussion of post-conflict democratic governance
in Nepal.
Dev Raj Dahal talks about the dynamics
of public security scenario in Nepal in terms of political
discipline and the problem of the commons. Bishnu Raj
Upreti discusses the need for review of the peace process,
strengthening transitional mechanisms and framing a long
term security policy.
Other articles cover areas like democratic
institution building by Jan Sharma, Nepal’s national
security policy by M R Josse, inclusive democracy and
public security by Ram Kumar Dahal and economic dimensions
of security by Keshav P Acharya and Neelam Timsina.
Unfortunately, one of the essays constitutes a flagrant
case of plagiarism. The paper ‘Economic dimension
of security in Nepal’ by Keshav P Acharya and Neelam
Timsina lifts paragraphs word-by-word from Prof Dhruba
Kumar’s 2003 article published in CNAS journal, Contributions
to Nepalese Studies, without citing, attributing or paraphrasing
his language and ideas.
Source: The Himalayan Times (4
October 2009)
Attempts
are being made to make court useless <Top>
Kathmandu: Chief Justice Min Bahadur Rayamajhi has expressed
his resentment, as attempts are being made to make court
"useless" . Justice Raymahji made this remarks
by referring to the decisions being made by the judicial
committees of the Constituent Assembly. He cautioned that
merely on the basis of "power" attempt should
not be made to spoil our judicial system as it neither
promoted democracy nor delivers justice. He was speaking
in a programme organised by the Administrative Court of
Nepal in cooperation with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Nepal
Office. He further said that democracy can only be strengthened
by the concept of constitutionalism and independent judiciary
and we should be united work towards this end.
Likewise, he has drawn attention of those who are involved
in the constitution writing process that merely by taking
few incident in consideration, the independent judiciary
should not be victimised.
With the majority from the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist)
and Madesh based Party, provisions are being made to include
in the upcoming constitution to define constitution, appointment
and punishment of the judges of the court through the
judicial committee of the house. Most of the speakers
spoke against this provisions in the programme and termed
it a decision taken in haste.
Senior most judge Anup Raj Sharma said that the patient
should not be killed merely because he is suffering from
the disease; he should be treated and equated this with
the current situation of the court.
He further said that by curtailing the rights of the
court, there is no way that the rights of the legislative
could be protected. He was presenting a paper on "Constitution
Writing Process and Judicial Rights". In terms of
appointment of the judges of the court, we could have
representative from the legislative, suggested justice
Sharma.
Purna Kumai Subedi - Deputy Speaker of the Constituent
Assembly has said that judiciary is not service oriented.
Mr Nilambar Acharya - Chairman of the Constitution Writing
Committee, said that the challenges of writing constitutions
are increasing.
Source: Kantipur Daily (12 September 2009)
One Madesh-One
Pradesh is Dangerous for National Unity <Top>
Parsa, 26 Shrawan:
The two-day discussion programme [workshop] on democratic
has socialism started from today in Birganj. The programme
was organised by Martyrs Memorial Foundation with the
support from Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Nepal Office. Speaking
in the inaugural session of the programme, General Secretary
of the Nepali Congress Bimalendra Nidhi said that demand
for "one Madesh, one Pradeseh" is not possible
as it will lead to the disintegration of the state. He
further said that serious intellectual discussion with
experts and members from all political parties is required
before we go for federal system or craft federal states
for that matter. He also blamed United Communist Part
of Nepal (Maoist) for disrupting parliament and the street
agitation (movement) it has started in the name of various
issues which are not so important. He appealed to them
that its high time to focus on army integration and thereby
paving the way to write a constitution in time, he appealed.
The General Secretary of the Martyr Memorial Foundation
Khilanath Dahal said that all the martyrs since B.S. 2007
have to be recorded and the state should make a clear
direction in this regard. Likewise, those injure during
the movement should be treated as martyr and the name
of the martyrs there incidents of taking advantages from
the government and this has to be discouraged.
Source: Prateek Daily (11 August
2009)
Discussion
on Democratic Socialism Begins <Top>
Parsa, Shrawan 26
The two-day discussion programme [workshop] on democratic
socialism and its relevance in Nepali context has begun
in the Chamber of Commerce complex in Birgunj. The programme
was organised by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Nepal Office
in association with Martyrs Memorial Foundation. Speaking
in the programme, chief guest and General Secretary of
Nepali Congress, Bimalendra Nidhi said that the proposed
federal system in Nepal needs to be widely discussed with
experts, intellectuals and members of all political parties.
Different political parties have different opinions on
the models of federalism in Nepal which has created a
great deal of confusion in society. This confusion needs
to be bridged-up by uniting all stake-holders and societal
members. He blamed that CPN (Maoist) is working against
the spirit of "peace agreement" and it would
be in the interest of state to stop radical activities
in the country as this will provide some sort of solutions
to the current political deadlock. Speaking in the same
programme Khilanath Dahl said that the state has not done
enough for 'martyrs'. He opined that those who had laid
down their life in different political movements for the
cause of democracy should be identified and their statute
be erected. State should also provide compensation to
their families. The programme was chaired by Dhundi Raj
Shashtri , a veteran socialist. Ajayay Dwibedi, Om Prakash
Sharma, Keshab Bhatta, Nijamuddin Saman, Dr. Dev Raj Dahal
expressed their views on social democracy and its relevance
in Nepal as well as other contemporary political issues.
Source: Narayani Dainik (11 August
2009)
Forming
States by including Himal-Pahad-Terai is extremist approach:
<Top>
The Maoists movement is irrelevant,
this will only make Katwal a Hero. The General Secretary
of Nepali Congress, Bimalendra Nidhi, has said that formation
of federal states by including or linking Himal-Pahad
and Terai is driven by narrow thinking and will not serve
broader national approach. Nidhi said this in a two-day
programme organised by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung in association
with Martyr Memorial Foundation on Democratic Socialism
in Nepali context. At a time when we are moving towards
federal system, it is not compulsory to be abided by the
argument that federal should be drawn by including Himal-Pahad-Terai.
Likewise, the idea of one Madesh-one Pradesh is also driven
by narrow thinking. In fact this is not a time to get
involved in such types of debate, in contrast, this is
a time to have serious discussion with expert, intellectuals,
political parties and other stake holders as what type
of federal system would best serve the interest of the
state and society. This issue should be made national
and discussion is required from all stake holders of society
for its legitimacy said Nidhi. He said that for not having
legitimate approach, the Indian states such as Assam and
Bihar are still demanding for the separate states within
the state. Still there is a tendency to separate from
the existing states in India.
Source: Birganj Report
Daily (11 August 2009)
The Risk of
State Failure: Says constitutional Expert Dahal <Top>
Speaking at a seminar organized by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
(Nepal Office) constitutional expert Kashi Raj Dahal said
that political parties should be activated to prevent
the state failure of Nepal. He pointed the indicators
such as deteriorating security, unstable government, ineffectiveness
of parliament and people's representatives, non-responsiveness
of government to the people, denial of peaceful lives,
lack of service delivery and excessive corruption. He
added that bureaucracy and judiciary must be impersonal,
fair, neutral and autonomous as democracy is based on
rule of law, not the rule of individuals. If these problems
remain unaddressed like other states of the world Nepal
would face the same fate of failure. He also said that
public interest institutions should not be politicized.
Since the resolution of the complex problem of the nation
requires strong political will we have to stimulate political
parties to forge consensus and play constructive role
in drafting constitution.
Chief District Officer Bed Bahadur Karki
stated that all the citizens must engage actively in the
drafting of new constitution. Speaking on the occasion
head of FES Nepal office Dev Raj Dahal argued that conflict
reward the powerful and penalizes the weak. Therefore,
conflict should be managed as soon as possible through
democratic means. He said the state effectiveness rests
on legitimate monopoly on power, taxation, loyalty of
people and international recognition. Nepal is facing
deficits in all these areas and is unable to perform core
state functions. The two-day seminar will stress on state-building,
constitutional questions and principles and practices
of democracy.
Source: Bardiya
Times (27 July 2009)
Federalism
is the Spirit of the Age <Top>
Dhanagadhi, Saturday 25.
The participants of a seminar on "State
Building and Constitutional Questions" argued that
federalism in Nepal must be attuned with the spirit of
the Age. The discussion was organized by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
(FES) Nepal office. Speaking at the seminar political
analyst Dev Raj Dahal argued that Nepali nation-building
must be based on the fusion of third wave of democracy,
human rights, sovereignty and technology. Building state
capacity requires blending democracy and nationalism.
He added that the state can perform effectively if it
has legitimate monopoly on power and citizens build trust
on its institutions. Dahal said that weakness of Nepali
state has been caused by competitive violence, erosion
of policy sovereignty and incapacity to steer governance
functions. He added that competing loyalty of subsidiary
groups has also eroded national identity. This is the
reason external meddling has become frequent.
Dahal argued that after the termination
of Maoist's People's War new conflict lines are manifested
at class, religion, regional and ethnic level. Wihtout
political consensus on the rules of the game it would
be difficult to resolve multi-level conflict and set the
nation in constitutionally trodden path. The consensual
politics is veering into competition and confrontation.
There is no alternative to collective choice. Debating
on Dahal's paper participants argued that federalism should
be based on vertical division of geography. Officer of
National Human Rights Commission Jhankar Rawal stated
that due to a lack of clear perspective political instability
is deepening. Former Chief of Kailali Bar Association
Bir Bahadur Jethara discussed about the need to establish
good governance in the country through the application
of democratic principles. Constitutionalism requires rule-governed
behavior of both ruler and ruled. This is also essential
for the accountability and transparency of rule. The program
was chaired by Dr. Hem Raj Pant. Assistant Chief District
Officer Bharat Luintel also spoke on the occasion.
Source: Seti Samachar (25-26
July 2009)
Constitutional
behaviour is necessary for Constitutional State <Top>
Dhangadi, Friday, July 25, 2009: Political
Scientist Dev Raj Dahal, while speaking during the inaugural
session of the two day programme on Statebuilding and
Constitutional Dynamics organised by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
in Dahngadi, said that when boundaries of constitutional
behaviour needs to be strengthened and respected as this
will help to establish constitutional state which will
guarantee governance and social justice. He further said
that political parties and civil society groups are the
arenas where people can express their desires without
any coercion; they, themselves, are not the source of
legitimacy. As such Civil Society and Political Parties
should provide platform when people can speak/express
freely about politics, policy and other issues that concern
them most. When Political parties are able to strike a
balance between law and politics and civil society between
right and duties (responsibilities), then only citizens
at large can have 'common identity'.
This will also help to establish
political system that upheld freedom and promotes equality.
Similarly, media should endeabour to win confidence of
people towards public institutions. Democracy gains legitimacy
from election, people's belief and its ability to deliver
justice successfully to the society, said Dahal.
The programme was chaired by Dr. Hem
Raj Panta, Campus Chief of the Kailiai Multiple Campus.
Mr Bir Bahadur Jethara, former president of Kailali Bar
Association, presented a paper on Constitution and its
underlying components. He emphasized on the fact that
rule of law, duty-bound state with the help of people
can assist to establish democratic political culture.
The programme was attended by the members
of political parties of this region, members of civil
society, teachers, lecturers, government officials, human
rights activists, journalists, women, local administrators
and security officials of the district. Speaking from
the Chair Dr. Panta said that there is an urgent need
to strike a balance and for this coordination is required
between state, market and society to address challenges
brought about by the transitional politics. If we failed
to address these challenges honestly, there are chances
that peace process may falter-away down the road, said
Dr. Pant.
Khadak Raj Joshi from INSEC, Surya Subedi
from Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist-United), Janak Raj
Joshi from Nepali Congress, Padam Nepali, Jhapat Suwal
from Human Rights Commission , among others commented,
in programme. Likewise, Ghanshyam Bhattarai, Rabi Bhatta,
Dev Bahadur Bam from GEFONT, Lawyer Ram Bahadur KC, Journalist
Lukcy Chaudhary, Ritu Bohara, Saraswati Pandey also commented
in the programme.
Source: Shree Nepal Times
Daily (25 July 2009)
State is Bordering
on Failure due to Incapacity <Top>
FES Nepal office has initiated two day
discussion on state building and constitutional questions.
On that occasion political analyst Dev Raj Dahal said
that if the state is not strengthened the state-society
relations will face tensions and conflict. Only a strong
state can performance core governance functions-security,
rule of law, voice, civic participation, service delivery
and non-violent resolution of conflict. Political parties
must evolve a consensus on "common ground" and
allow the state to function in an impersonal manner.
CPN-UML leader Ram Bahadur Chanda stressed
the need for the preparation of state framework before
the constitution is drafted. Maoist leader Surya Subedi
blamed civil society for acting in a partisan way and
not taking into account the interest of public. He said
that civil society should oversee the functions of political
parties and the state. Assistant Chief District Officer
of Kailali district Bharat P. Luintel, Khadga Joshi, Coordinator
of INSEC for Far -West, Ghanasshayam Bhattarai of CPN-ML
and a number of participated shared their views. FES has
organized this seminar to inform and educate the people
about national affairs and enable them to make informed
choices on constitutional issues.
Source: Dhanagadhi Post
(25 July 2009)
Democratization
of Society in Nepal with Inner-Party Democracy: Experts
<Top>
TGW
Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) has organized
a two-day residential seminar on July 18-19 on "Social
Democracy and Inner-Party Democracy." Over 50 central
committee members and youth leaders of Nepali Congress,
CPN-UML, UCPN (Maoist), Left front and independent scholars
took part in the meeting. Four papers were presented on
various themes from party leaders and intellectuals that
were intensely commented by the participants.
Chairing the inaugural session Prof.
Dr. Chaitanya Mishra said that "Social democracy
can be a basis of governance for all political parties
in Nepal because it moderates capitalism and increases
cooperation between the capital and the labor. The main
challenges for Nepal are how to increase the competitive
strength of capitalists and workers and increase cooperation
between them.
Social democracy is essential to increase
the stake holding of people in the democratic system through
their empowerment."
The Keynote Speaker Modnath Prasrit said, "National
characteristics of Nepal must be identified before adopting
a polity.
Political parties should take into account
the historical account of nation-building before applying
any theory, Prashrit said.
Our society is too diverse. Therefore, while formulating
vision national leaders have to identity comparative and
competitive advantages of the nation and the areas where
we need cooperation from friendly nations", Modnath
Prashrit, the UML leader continued.
He stressed on party reforms and a culture
of learning from the society and people without forgetting
our historical tasks laid down by our forefathers.
Nepali Congress (NC) leader Surendra
Panday argued that when "Marx said that freedom cannot
be exchanged for equality," wherein lays our difference
with left parties. Another NC leader Ramesh Lekhak stressed
on taking three fundamental values of social democracy,
"freedom, social justice and solidarity together"
and apply them in the internal life of political parties.
He defended property rights for wealth creation and investment.
Pradip Gyawali of CPN-UML compared people's
multi-party democracy with social democracy and argued
that we need to refine concepts to fit into our needs.
The leader of the Unified Communist
Party of Nepal (Maoist) Devendra Paudel (Sunil) commenting
on the paper narrated the causes of global economic crisis
and asked "What are the choices left for us?"
Expressing happiness over the discussion on social democracy
and party reforms which he said if first of its kind argued
that "we must end the capitalist oriented rationalization
because it is a threat to citizenship and nationality.
The state has to play certain role in both well being
of citizens to emancipate them from necessity and promote
the sphere of freedom. And the discussion about the inner-party
democracy should be taken to the people. This kind of
debate is essential for all of us to go together."
On inner-party the main challenges debated
were: lack of representation of gender, Dalits and young
people in the central and district committees, minimum
time allocation for debate on agendas in the national
convention, growth of extra-party political participation,
factionalism breakdown of connection with local committees,
erosion of ideology, politics of negation, incongruity
between constitution and party programs, and centralization
tendency. Participants agreed that social democracy strengthens
the social base of politics and helps to democratize party
structures and political culture.
Head of FES Nepal welcomed the participants
and underlined the importance of the topic of the seminar.
Source: The Telegraph Weekly
(20 July 2009)
Those who
see power in Bullet are afraid of the press <Top>
Kathmandu, Jestha 13: Speaking in a
programme organised by Nepal Press Union on its 18th years
of establishment Vice President of Nepal Congress Ram
Chandra Poudyal urged journalist to be more vigilant particularly
during the constitution writing process as attempts are
being made to curtail rights of the press under various
guises. Attempts are underway to ban the parties, organizations
and activities whose principles are not liked by the few
sections of the society. Such proposes have been submitted
to the Constitutional Committees of the Constituent Assembly.
He argued that Maoist who claimed to
be democratic are now engaged in proposing laws to ban
political parties, ideology, organizations, activities
that do not fit or clash with their interest/ideology.
This type of working style of CPN (Maoist) does not fit
with the reality of the 21st century. This "double-standard"
nature of behavior of CPN(Maoist) is putting the peace-process
at jeopardy. He lamented that few civil society activists
have become mere spectator while attempts are being made
to hijack the freedom. Maoists who see power through bullet
and violence are also afraid of the press, these we all
have realized now and the need of the hour is to strengthen
media in order to make it more effective and efficient.
Poudel further said that journalists
are the best guards of freedom and your contribution as
good "informer" is noteworthy. Likewise, Taranath
Dahal former President of Nepal Journalists Association
said that Nepali Journalists have not been able to fully
exercise the full press freedom guaranteed by the Constitution
of 2047. The programme was held under the chairmanship
of the Press Council, Samir Jang Shah . Dr. Prakash Sharan
Mahat, Central Member of Nepal Congress, speaking in the
programme said that the upcoming constitution will make
every effort to guarantee full press freedom. He underlined
that Press Freedom is not only for the journalist it will
also benefit people at large. Likewise, Shovakar Parajuli,
the founding member of Press Council and CA member of
Nepali Congress said that united has played crucial role
for the press and time has come to expand its role.
Dharmendra Jha, President of Nepal Journalist
Association, said that attempts are being made to "control"
press in the name of press freedom. The unabated attack
on journalist in different parts of the country is continuing
but appealed that we should remain alert to safeguard
our professional rights in order to fulfill our duties
honestly.
Harihar Birahi, Senior Journalist
said that state should play more proactive role in media
in the days to come.
Source: Gorkhapatra Daily
(28 May 2009)
Maoists are
bent on making undemocratic constitution: Vice President
Paudel <Top>
Rajdhani Correspondent
Kathmandu May 27
Vice-President of Nepali Congress Ram
C. Paudel blamed Maoists for attempting to make undemocratic
constitution. He said this in a seminar organized by Nepal
Press Union on "Role of Working Journalists in the
New Constitution." He added that the draft of the
constitution it prepared has provision to control party
and press and their activities generated fear in the minds
of other parties. He also suggested accepting the democratic
values of 21st Century and jettisoning archaic ideas.
He also blamed that it is dreaming to capture state power
through combatants in the cantonment, integrate Maoists
into the army thus forgetting the values of democracy.
Samir Shah, president of NPU, said that political parties
approach in press varies during their stay in power and
outside. Many Congress leaders Dr. Prakash S. Mahat, Shovakar
Parajuli, Harihar Birahi, Dharmendra Jha spoke on the
occasion.
Source: Rajdhani Daily
(27 May 2009)
The step of
President is based on his rights to maintain checks and
balance <Top>
Lalitpur, May 18, The senior leader
of Nepali Congress Party and former Prime Minister Sher
Bahadur Deuba supporting the step of the President said
that the provision of president is inserted in the constitution
to prevent the abuse of power by the Prime Minister. In
order to maintain checks and balance and abuse of power
independent institutions such as court, Public Service
Commission, Attorney General Press and opposition party
have been created. This remark was made by Deuba in a
seminar "Democratic Socialism" organized by
Martyrs Memorial Foundation in Cooperation with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
(FES) Nepal office. He also added that the step of President
to order the Army Chief to continue his post was constitutional
aimed at protecting the constitution and democracy. He
added since the case is there in the court all should
respect its verdict.
Vice-Chairperson of CPN-UML party Viday
Devi Bhandari stating that the step of the president is
historical and bold added that Maoist combatants can not
be put into equal footing with Nepal Army which is national
in character.
Source: The Gorkhapatra Daily
(19 May 2009)
Education
for Women Empowerment <Top>
Kathmandu, March 7, Rajdhani Correspondent
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Kedar
Prasad Giri said that a lot has to be done to empower
Nepalese women. He said this during a seminar "Inclusion
of Women's Rights in New Constitution," organized
by Modern Girl Multiple College in cooperation with FES,
Germany. Women of Nepal lagged behind due to social transcript
of society. The Secretary-General of CPN-UML Ishwor Pokhrel
argued that women's organizations must be alert about
the inclusion of their rights in the new constitution.
He even warned of the serious consequences to peace if
women are deprived of their legitimate rights. Political
parties must work together to achieve the goals of peace
accord.
Nepali Congress leader Mahesh Acharya
said that social equality must be established in the constitution
by eliminating discriminatory laws and domestic violence
against women. They need to be guaranteed right to reproductive
health and provided access to income generating activities.
Prof. Dr. Indira Sharma opined that women require gender
mainstreaming, proportional rights and empowerment in
every aspect of human life. Lack of evaluation of domestic
work done by women is the major factor of discrimination.
It should be reflected in the national account system.
Campus Chief. Ram Prasad Dahal stressed
on the need for women's education seeking their participation
in all aspects. Women of urban areas too need to go to
the rural areas to mobilize rural women and support their
education and rights. Planner Dr. Goivind Bahadur Thapa
presented a paper on women's status in Nepal and inclusion
of their rights in the new constitution while journalist
Arati Chataut presented on women's rights. The organizers
informed that they will submit their report to the Constituent
Assembly.
Source:
Rajdhani Daily (8 March 2009)
Seminar
on State-Building and Constitutional Questions <Top>
Gaindakot, Nawalparasi, February 21
Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Nepal
organized a two-day seminar to debate on various questions
of constitutions, such as state-building, public consultation
on constitution, federalism,form of government and the
peace process. Constitutional expert Kashi Raj Dahal initiated
lively discussion on the various models of constituional
democracy and federalism. Head of FES Dev Raj Dahal explained
the necessary elements for state, condition of Nepali
state and its links to democracy. He argued that Nepali
state's monopoly on power, tax, loyalty of citizens and
international recognition is eroding. It must restore
all these elements to escape from being a failed state,
construct sovereignty and modernize nation-building process.
Another speaker Khagendra Prasai debunked Nepal's various
social myths and argued for the need of scientific and
rational outlook to internalize the principles of democracy
and human rights in the life of society.
Source: Kayakairan Daily (21
February 2009)
Seminar
on Constitution <Top>
Sankhu, February 9, Monday: Friedrich-Ebert-STiftung
(FES) Nepal organised a one-day seminar on "Initiative
for Democracy Building: State Building and Constitutional
Question"social organisation, schools, politicians
and opinion makers are initiated to participate.
Kashi Raj Dahal spoke on key questions
of state restructuring and constitution, such as role
of Constitution Assembly committees, federalism, forms
of government, integration of Maoists combatants and peace
building.
Chandra Dev Bhatta explained the principles
of democracy and initiated discussions.
Dev Raj Dahal responded the questions
of floor discussion and explained the key features of
modern state.
Attended by 71 local participants FES
also distributed books on HAndouts of Democracy and Building
Modern State and Constitutional Questions.
Source: Paramarsa Weekly (9 February
2009)
|
