KATHMANDU: CPN-UML General Secretary Shankar Pokharel has proposed granting independent status to parliamentarians from parties that do not achieve national status in order to strengthen democracy in Nepal. Speaking at a meeting at the Central Office in Chyasal, Pokharel argued that such a reform would reduce the number of smaller, less influential parties, thereby consolidating political power and enhancing democratic stability.
Pokharel suggested that if MPs from parties failing to meet the national threshold were recognized as independents, they would likely align with larger, more influential parties for their political future. This realignment could gradually diminish the influence of fringe parties and address the issue of smaller parties holding disproportionate power under the current legal framework.
Criticizing the existing laws for bolstering smaller parties rather than allowing stronger ones to emerge, Pokharel emphasized that this imbalance erodes public trust in democracy. He argued that legal and constitutional reforms are necessary to strengthen major parties and restore faith in democratic governance.
Despite concerns about the proportional election system potentially preventing any single party from gaining a majority, Pokharel maintained that a popular party could still achieve a majority. He warned that ongoing political instability could lead to a shift in public sentiment, possibly towards a nostalgic view of the monarchy, which had been previously seen as regressive.
Pokharel's proposal reflects his belief that amendments to the law and constitution are crucial for stabilizing democracy and reinforcing the role of major parties. His remarks highlight a growing concern about the current political landscape and the need for reform to ensure a more effective and trusted democratic process.
