Who Has Implemented More Federalism; Maoist or Nepali Congress?
Who Has Implemented More Federalism; Maoist or Nepali Congress?
By Anshuta Pradhan, Arya Upadhyaya, and Ajaya Poudel, Chief Reporters of LP-III for TES MUN 2024
TESMUN PRESS 2024
Tuesday, 10th September
The third session of TESMUN 2024 commenced with a grand opening on the first day, during which all committee heads were introduced. Delegates actively participated in the crisis, ensuring a more engaged and dynamic committee. As we moved into the second day of the final session, the proceedings began with a roll call where every delegate demonstrated equal participation. Following this, the delegates raised a motion to start the General Speaker’s List (GSL), with Rabi Lamichhane (Aakarshi Poudel) speaking first.
As the GSL progressed, Bishwa Prakash Sharma (Abhash Kunwar) accused Rabi Lamichhane (Aakarshi Poudel) of criticising the government's efforts in implementing federalism. In response, Rabi Lamichhane argued that to effectively implement federalism, the government must complete its tenure and deliver on its promises. The delegate highlighted their party's efforts and sacrifices for federalism, noting that since entering parliament, they have addressed various developmental sectors, contributing to the establishment of a federal democratic nation.
The delegate representing Bhagwati Chaudhary (Sujal Lal Munakarmi) faced questions regarding their responsibilities and the sacrifices made by their party. However, as the GSL continued, the committee seemed to become passive. Notably, the delegate of Swarnim Wagle (Shreni Chapagain) remained silent, with Rabi Lamichhane (Aakarshi Poudel) speaking on their behalf.
Rabi Lamichhane further accused Pradip Paudel (Aarush Katuwal) of failing to contribute significantly to the health sector. In defence, Pradip Paudel outlined the steps taken by their party to achieve success in this sector. Despite these interactions, the committee lacked the necessary decorum and active participation, and the GSL seemed to drag on, wasting valuable time.
The committee regained momentum as delegates presented their opinions, overcoming the initial passivity. After concluding the GSL, delegates raised motions for a moderated caucus. Rabi Lamichhane’s (Aakarshi Poudel) motion on the "Issue of federalism and the roles of different political leaders in overcoming these issues" was approved.
During the moderated caucus, Rabi Lamichhane (Aakarshi Poudel) accused KP Sharma Oli (Aayushma Shrestha) of neglecting waste management, claiming their focus was instead on the film industry. This sparked various arguments within the committee, with delegates highlighting numerous weaknesses and challenges. Additionally, the delegate of Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Sulav Sapkota) defended their party's role, stating that the Maoist party played a crucial role in bringing forth federalism, alongside the support of other major parties, including the Communist Party of Nepal and the Nepali Congress.
The delegate of Bishwa Prakash Sharma (Abhash Kunwar) accused Rajendra Prasad Lingden (Sushan Shrestha) and Gyan Bahadur Shahi (Aaradhya Adhikari) of supporting the monarchy, questioning them on their stance. Furthermore, Ramesh Lekhak (Prateek Bhattarai) accused Rabi Lamichhane (Aakarshi Poudel) of involvement in a cooperative fund investigation that has not yet been closed and appears unfavourable for Rabi Lamichhane. The case, backed by strong evidence such as fingerprints and account records, remains unresolved.
Madhav Kumar Nepal (Saksham Adhikari) was also accused of nepotism, with allegations of favouring family members that have been substantiated.
All delegates participated actively, with one side presenting arguments while the other countered. Though the committee initially lacked engagement, the moderated caucus demonstrated a renewed sense of participation and debate.