Peace and Democracy in Nepal? Give it up, give it up!

(Courtesty: Siddhartha Thapa)

As Nepal anticipates a novel constitutional order, political pundits across the spectrum concur that Nepal has entered her most crucial and fragile state in history. Today, all hearts and minds in this politically exhausted country are disquieted with the political party's role in preserving democracy in Nepal. In line with the recent political developments in Nepal, the situation can be pigeonholed into three events chronologically: the reinstatement of democracy, neutralization of the fluid situation vis-à-vis stabilizing the government and setting the course for Constituent Assembly elections.

The promulgation of the interim statue has pulled the country into the third and final stage that will eventually determine and shape the polity of tomorrows Nepal. Unfortunately, critical decisions that lack appropriate legal authority in the absence of a fresh mandate have already been taken. Abrupt political decisions illustrate concerns that have floated in the media recently questioning the direction in which we are heading. Recently a leading English daily, The Kathmandu Post, quoted the Maoist Chairman Prachanda briefing members of COMPOSA and RIM that the "CPN – M were close to grabbing state power".

Over the last six months, however, major political parties primarily the CPN UML have attempted dispatching cadres to far-flung villages across the country to gear for the upcoming elections. According to the UML from what they have gathered so far from the reports submitted to its party leadership during its tours to rural Nepal, major political including the RPP and RJP have not lost their base in the villages. Contrary to what the Maoist leadership claim, the UML insists that the Maoist have been unable to gather more political ground even after the successful conclusion of the April Revolution. Intimidation is the only weapon the Maoists possess and it is in their interest to obstruct free and fair elections so that results tilt in their favor.

Despite half-hearted attempts by the Maoist leadership to assimilate their regimented party organ into mainstream politics, it has so far been largely unsuccessful. Rumors are afloat that serious differences have erupted between the politburo and the Maoist military wing; and this consequently has resulted in continued Maoist atrocities. However, such rumors are unfounded. When the Maoists eventually capture state power they will confess that all this was a part of their strategy to capture state power. Yet another intriguing detail is that while the UML student and trade union wings have being repeatedly harassed by the Maoists, the Congress student and trade unions wings have been mildly affected. It is in my understanding that in months preceding the polls, the Maoists will unleash their ferocity towards Nepali Congress. In such circumstances the parties in the government will not have the capability in countering Maoists tactics, nor will the international community. Even India will not be able to contain or thwart Maoist designs.

In the recent past, UML General Secretary Madhav Nepal raised his objection to the Maoist high command about the continued Maoist atrocities. But why raise objections now, considering that the UML an important component of the government talk team, failed to confine armed Maoist militia into the proposed cantonments. The opportunity to make the forthcoming elections free and fair has already been lost. The important question that needs to be raised now is what constitutes the description of free and fair elections according to the seven political parties and the Maoists. Elections in Nepal have been rigged to a certain extent in the past, so is there reason why these elections should be any different? The only difference attached to these elections is the degree of rigging which will be acceptable to the government, international community and to the underground movers and shakers of Nepali politics. I am afraid the real voice of the Nepali people will not be represented.

The Future

Girija Prasad's struggle to preserve democracy has been phenomenal, the same, however; can be said about his inevitable downfall. As the interim parliament compromises of a leftist majority, Girija may be remembered as a democrat who surrendered state power in the hands of the Maoist. Just as we read this write up, Maoist continue to collect taxes and commit atrocities while the political parties are busying themselves pocketing hefty commissions from lucrative deals. Whatever happened to the Kanak Dixits, Majushree Thapas and the Devendra Raj Pandeys', the champions of Loktantra? Why have they chosen to remain silent?

Nepal is treading along the path towards further political chaos. Isn't the survival of democracy and national unity at stake? It might have taken Kanak Dixits', Majushree Thapas' and Devendra Raj Pandeys' a lot of energy to unseat the monarchy but uprooting a proletariat despot with an electoral mandate will cost many lives, unfortunately including theirs.

The Indian government may be under the impression that by inducting our Bolshevik friends into government, the Maoists would loose their vantage of being the opposition. The Indian thesis goes on to suggest that once in government the Maoists will be forced to act responsibly. But on the other hand, the Indian policy does not make sense, especially in the 21st century where foreign policy is being guided through medium of realism, where the stress is laid more on pragmatism. To illustrate the skewed Indian perception better in Nepal, parallels can be drawn from a game of basketball.

For example, the Chicago Bulls are playing the LA Lakers; and the Bulls have a 20 point lead and; there is only 10 minutes left to the end of the game. Would it make sense, if the Bulls call it a draw or would they go for the kill to inflict psychological damage to the Lakers? I leave you to decide on the outcome. Similarly, in Nepal, if given the choice, the Maoist would go for the kill leaving the Nepali Congress and UML completely demoralized during the final laps leading to the Constituent Assembly polls.

Unfortunately, serious doubts arise now at this critical juncture as to whether or not the political parties, including the Maoists are true to their cause. Recent Maoist actions suggest otherwise, I would have no hesitation in branding the Maoist as an invading force, a party that aims to capture state power ultimately by eliminating other political oponents. As for the political parties their recent performance in government and parliament can be described as nothing less than embarrassing.

What about King G and Prince P? People may wonder why I have made no mention about our revered King and the Crown Prince. Common sense would dictate for the abdication of KG and PP paving way for Hridendra as the new king for a loktrantrik Nepal, but honestly only God can come to their rescue.

The future of Nepal does look rather bleak; seeds of communal violence have been sown, thus, paving way for further political disintegration. Just as the people were beginning to wonder if their participation in the April revolution made sense, the daily bandhs, unchecked communal violence, and stunt politics is leaving the majority of Nepalis increasingly disillusioned day by day. It is therefore, only sensible to conclude that we Nepali's are still miles away to receive any form on respite in the immediate future.

Maoists – your commitment towards peace and democracy is just as shallow as Mr.Moriarity suggests it is. Political Parties – full of empty promises.

Media – You are our only hope, stay true to your cause and highlight everything that keeps our comrades and bloated politicians on their toes. Champions of Loktantra - Where are you?

Human Rights Activists – What ever has happened to the human rights situation now? At least Kangaroo courts, detention centers were no where in sight. International Community – Two word mission, "Save Democracy."

The King – May Lord Pashupatinath bless you! The People - Stay on your toes, the time will come for us to revolt once again.The battle to preserve democracy and preserve sustainable peace is far from won.

J'ai Nepal!