Nepali Times
From The Nepali Press
Will they learn?



Each representative of the international community, political parties and various bodies of citizens' society have reacted differently to the royal proclamation of February First. The NC, UML, Unity Centre-Masal and NC-D have called on unity for the restoration of democracy. So far, RPP and NWPP have not made any statement. The Mandal faction of NSP has supported the king's move. The Maoists who have often been fickle-minded in their opinions made a statement to signify that the possibility for peace talks was over. They always wanted to hold direct talks with the king but even when given the chance the Maoists have not responded. The UN, India, USA, UK and the European Union, while expressing their deep concern about the new situation, have stressed the restoration of democracy in the country. The Americans have implied they may pull out bilateral aid if the new government fails to restore the democratic system, cooperate with major political parties and remove press censorship within 100 days. The political parties that have gone underground are preparing for a united movement. The public seems to think that the political leaders haven't learnt their lesson. The royal proclamation is not just a challenge to the parties but also an opportunity for the leaders to rectify their errors.

They should realise that in the last 14 years of democracy, the parties have committed grave mistakes. They concentrated on their power struggle against each other. NC's weakness began when the parliament was first dissolved. Political instability began as soon as NC tried everything to dissolve the UML government led by late Manmohan Adhikari. The Mallik Commission did not take any action against those involved in atrocities during the People's Movement of 1990 and the parties aligned with those individuals. Consequently, the Nepali Congress split. UML was also divided into two factions. The party leaders were intent on going to any extreme to grab power and seat in the government. As for now, a united movement for democracy is not possible unless the parties rid themselves of their bad reputation and bring a complete change in themselves. Instead of announcing a new movement in a hurry, the parties should find a new direction in order to lead the people with a completely new political vision and concern.



LATEST ISSUE
638
(11 JAN 2013 - 17 JAN 2013)


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