KATHMANDU, Feb 19: The state of democracy in Nepal's political parties has been a topic of debate from various perspectives, particularly since the establishment of multi-party democracy in 1990. Despite three decades since democracy's restoration in the country, criticisms persist regarding an autocratic style of operation within the parties. This issue was discussed at the Nepal Literature Festival in Pokhara, under the theme "How Democratic are the parties?"
The session was facilitated by Kamal Dev Bhattarai, editor of The Annapurna Express. Speakers included Nepali Congress (NC) leader Min Bahadur Bishwakarma, CPN-UML Chief Whip Padam Giri, CPN (Maoist Center) leader Madhav Sapkota, and expert Sucheta Pyakurel.
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NC leader Bishwakarma highlighted the party's commitment to internal democracy, noting its history of 14 conventions. He emphasized the strengthened internal election system and the practice of democracy within the party.
UML leader Giri shared his experience of democratic practices within the UML, attributing his rise to the central committee and a top position in parliament to these practices. He acknowledged the need to enhance the democratic culture both inside and outside the party.
Maoist leader Baskota remarked on the recent legislative session's role in bolstering internal democracy, with participants freely expressing their views. He noted the global communist movement's emphasis on democracy and its necessity in Nepal.
Expert Pyakurel discussed the challenges of aligning people and political parties with democratic practices worldwide. While recognizing the parties' efforts towards democracy, she critiqued the lack of inclusivity regarding gender and caste within Nepali political parties.
Bhattarai concluded the session by pointing out that the political parties’ statutes, internal election systems, and respect for diverse opinions are democracy's pillars within parties. He also raised concerns about the growing influence of money and power on candidate selection and other key decisions, urging a halt to this trend.
