Samragyi Tamrakar & Samyog Sedhai, Chief Reporter of LP-II, TES News

September 10, 2024  

In an effort to address ongoing political challenges in Nepal, the Legislature Parliament Committee II convened today. The session, chaired by Shuvangi K.C., with Vice Chair Smarika Bhatta and Moderator Pragyani Narayan, opened at 9 AM, focusing on constitutional amendments for political stability and socio-economic development. The agenda for the day was set through a motion raised by the delegate representing Dr. Swarnim Wagle (Rijan Shrestha), who proposed a General Speakers’ List (GSL) with a total time of one hour, allowing each speaker five minutes to present their views.

The delegate of Dr. Swarnim Wagle (Rijan Shrestha) took the floor as the first speaker in the GSL. He highlighted the importance of constitutional amendments for fostering political stability and enhancing socio-economic sectors. His speech emphasized investments in health and education, transparency, and how these elements are critical for effective constitutional reform. However, the delegate of KP Oli (Dibas Khadka) raised concerns about the needs of urban citizens and marginalized communities, questioning what Dr. Wagle’s party had done to address these issues. Furthermore, he opposed Dr. Wagle's economic policies, claiming they had failed to meet the people’s needs. When pressed by the dais panel for specifics, the delegate of Dr. Wagle struggled to provide a concrete response.

The delegate of Juli Kumari Mahato (Unnat Aryal) followed, discussing Nepal’s seven constitutions, particularly emphasizing the current one and its wide range of fundamental rights. She pointed out her party’s efforts to uplift lower-class citizens in politics, noting that her party included members from lower-class backgrounds. However, when Dr. Wagle’s delegate questioned her about a past instance where the delegate of KP Oli (Dibas Khadka) allegedly manipulated citizens to gain more votes, potentially leading to political instability, Mahato’s delegate could not provide a fully substantiated answer.

The delegate of Madhav Kumar Nepal (Saksham Thapaliya) then asked, “Major parties like CPN UML influenced the 2017 constitutional reforms, which were seen as problematic by some political groups. Critics argued that these adjustments were made to favor certain political parties and manipulate electoral outcomes rather than reflect genuine democratic or social needs. Marginalized communities like the Tharu and Madhesi have also cited these amendments. What motivated your party to take such crucial steps?”

The delegate of Ramesh Lekhak (Kushal Paudel) addressed the assembly next, stressing that a successful democracy is built on a solid constitution. He spoke about the importance of transparency, electronic processes, and economic goals in creating a robust constitution. He also highlighted Nepali Congress’s contributions to Madhesh Pradesh, such as providing shelter and food. However, when Dr. Wagle’s delegate questioned him about his party’s shift from decentralization to federalism, and how he planned to ensure equal development for all citizens through the constitution, Lekhak’s delegate responded that plans were being made to assist people across Nepal, including the Madhesi and Tharu communities.

The delegate of Bishwo Prakash Sharma (Aaryan Tamang) took the stage, discussing Nepal’s potential for achieving higher levels of development. In response, Dr. Wagle’s delegate asked about the criticism Sharma’s party faced for not addressing the needs of Madhesh Pradesh and failing to focus on socio-economic development for the poor and needy. Sharma’s delegate responded vaguely, stating that his party had taken many actions but did not specify what those actions were.

The delegate of CK Raut (Aashiya Shrestha), representing a party that has long supported Madhesh Pradesh and fought for its rights for over 15 years, outlined specific efforts his party had made in the region. However, the delegate of Shekhar Koirala (Abin Man Singh) questioned CK Raut’s delegate’s experience in constitutional matters, accusing him of focusing too much on regional issues while neglecting urban areas. CK Raut’s delegate responded but struggled to adequately address the concerns raised.

The delegate of Manju Khan (Barsha Anex Dit Chenaud) spoke next, reflecting on Nepal’s seven-decade-long constitutional history. She emphasized how Nepali Congress had united with CPN-UML for an extended period to push forward constitutional amendments. In response, Madhav Kumar Nepal’s delegate accused Manju Khan’s delegate, and by extension, Nepali Congress and CPN-UML, of uniting for their own profit in the constitutional amendment process.

The delegate of Subana Shrestha (Shubham Shrestha) briefly addressed the agenda but failed to provide any substantial details on her party’s contributions. When questioned by Shekhar Koirala’s delegate about her achievements during her tenure as a former education minister, she struggled to respond. KP Oli’s delegate also questioned Manju Khan’s delegate, challenging her assertion that federal structures were not being properly followed. Oli’s delegate asked whether her party truly supported the provinces. Manju Khan’s delegate stuttered and was unable to provide a clear answer.

As the session progressed, debates grew more heated, with delegates struggling to defend their positions amid tough questioning. Despite passionate speeches and intense discussions, the time for the moderated caucus ended, and the committee continued with the GSL.