The ruling party's refusal to immediately accede to the opposition's demand may be perceived as obstinacy by some, but it also underscores a broader concern about the erosion of institutional integrity and independence. By insisting on the formation of a parallel probe committee, the UML risks undermining the credibility of existing investigative bodies of the government.
At a time when the nation is grappling with multifaceted challenges, the sight of our parliamentary proceedings held hostage by political deadlock is a disheartening one. The ongoing obstruction of the parliament by the main opposition party, CPN-UML, demands urgent attention and contemplation from all corners of our democratic spectrum. While political divergence is the hallmark of a vibrant democracy, it is imperative that parties come together, bury their hatchets, and prioritize the greater good of the nation over their individual demands. The genesis of this impasse lies in the demand by the UML for the formation of a high-level probe committee to investigate the alleged gold smuggling scam. Undoubtedly, ensuring transparency and accountability in such cases is of paramount importance. However, it is equally vital to maintain a sense of proportion and allow due process to take its course. The government's appeal to await the conclusion of the Central Investigation Bureau's inquiry is grounded in the principle of allowing law enforcement agencies to perform their duties independently and without undue interference. The ruling party's refusal to immediately accede to the opposition's demand may be perceived as obstinacy by some, but it also underscores a broader concern about the erosion of institutional integrity and independence. By insisting on the formation of a parallel committee, the UML risks undermining the credibility of existing investigative bodies.
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It is crucial to recognize that for any democracy to flourish, the rule of law and faith in its institutions must be upheld at all costs. The prolonged disruption of parliamentary proceedings raises questions about the accountability of our elected representatives to the people who entrusted them with power. The primary duty of parliamentarians is to engage in constructive debate, legislate for the betterment of society, and hold the executive branch accountable. However, the ongoing deadlock has rendered our legislative body ineffective, denying the public the representation they deserve. Accountability goes beyond the borders of party lines. While the ruling party shoulders the responsibility of steering the nation, the opposition is entrusted with the role of constructive critique and offering alternatives. Instead of using their mandate to obstruct the functioning of parliament, the UML should employ its influence to ensure a robust and transparent investigation into the alleged gold smuggling scam. It is essential to acknowledge that party politics should not supersede national interests. The ongoing political brinkmanship only deepens the existing divisions within our society and weakens the foundations of our democracy. Both the ruling and opposition parties must recognize that the issues that affect our citizens are too pressing to be sacrificed at the altar of political maneuvering.
As the nation's attention is focused on this parliamentary impasse, it is worth reflecting on the values and principles that underpin our democracy. The freedom to express dissent and disagreement is a cherished right, but it must be exercised judiciously and responsibly. The current deadlock risks overshadowing the broader issues of public concern that urgently require parliamentary deliberation and action, including flood, landslides, economic recovery, healthcare reforms, and poverty alleviation. In the spirit of genuine democratic engagement, it is time for all parties to step back from their entrenched positions and engage in meaningful dialogue. The ruling party should demonstrate its commitment to transparency by allowing the ongoing investigations to unfold without hindrance. On the other hand, the UML should channel its energy into advocating for a strong and accountable investigation rather than resorting to parliamentary disruption. A functional and effective parliamentary system is a cornerstone of any thriving democracy, and it is the responsibility of all parties to ensure that this vital institution is not undermined by short-term political gains. It is time for the parties to come together, bury their hatchets, and end the deadlock in the interest of the people they represent in the parliament.
