Kathmandu, August 5
CPN-UML, the new main opposition, has claimed that the three-point agreement between the Nepali Congress, CPN-Maoist Centre and the Madheshi Morcha (United Democratic Madheshi Front) has the sole motive: ascension to power. The party made it clear it will not agree on Constitution amendment along Morcha’s lines, challenging parties concerned to justify amendment.
Bhim Rawal, UML vice-president, said on Thursday Constitution amendment has become a non-issue.
He questioned: Which topic, which issue should Constitution amendment incorporate?
Rawal then said: We have the most progressive constitutional provisions on citizenship in the world. We will not agree on granting citizenship to foreigners on the basis of descent.
“The Constitution has clear provisions on a proportionate-inclusive system. In all tiers of the state, there’s a provision of recruitment on a proportionate-inclusive basis.”
In no other country is there a provision on recruitment in national security agencies such as the army and the national vigilance centre, save in Nepal, Rawal said. He questioned: Is there the provision of recruitment on inclusive basis in India’s army and intelligence agencies?
The Constitution has already been amended on delineation of electoral constituencies, Rawal pointed, warning further that redrawing of provincial boundaries may incite a massive revolt.
Rawal said: Under no condition will we accept a province comprising Tarai-Madhesh only. We are open to amendment on other issues, but those seeking amendment should be able to convince us.
The new government may be able to address Morcha’s other demands, but soliciting UML support for Charter amendment seems pretty difficult.
Subas Nembang, deputy leader of the UML Parliamentary Party, said Constitution amendment will now become a subject of what he called electoral consumption.
Nembang pointed: The Constitution has not barred any party from taking their agendas to the people. Madheshi Morcha has already become a part of the new ruling coalition. By taking part in the constitutional process (of forming a new government), the Morcha has given the message that the Constitution has now become acceptable to all. Every party can seek Constitution amendment and they can also amend the same on the basis of understanding and necessity.
In the three-point understanding, the three parties have pledged to present a Constitution amendment proposal in the Parliament after reaching an understanding with other political parties. But UML has already indicated that it will not agree on Constitution amendment.
During a recent interview with Onlinekhabar, senior UML leader Madhav Nepal had rejected amending constitutional provisions on citizenship, proportionate-inclusive representation and provincial demarcation.
