The country on Wednesday witnessed the second phase of local elections. The last time local level elections took place in the country was nearly two decades ago when there were very few local bodies. The elections this time was historic also because it was the first local level elections after the country adopted federalism having seven provinces and 744 local units. While the government is yet to hold elections in Province 2, many local bodies have already got the officer bearers. Depending on their potential and needs, aspirations and visions of the chiefs and deputy chiefs of those bodies vary. Here we talked to the representatives of Achham and Ilam districts. 

Peoples representatives of local bodies in Ilam
Udaya Bahadur Rai, Chief, Sandakpur Rural Municipality 
 It is not just a moment of pride and joy. It is more of a moment of huge responsibility handed over to us. People were facing lots of hassles in lack of their representatives for long. Now, they can heave a sigh of relief. We are committed to meet their expectations.

Our dream does not differ from the dreams of the locals. With all the resources we have, we are going to change the face of our place. Road, communication, power and many other things need immediate attention. We are going to put in hundred percent efforts for development. I want to thank the voters from the core of my heart. 

Shova Parajuli, Deputy Chief, Sandakpur Rural Municipality 
 I have received an opportunity serve the people. It gives me a deep sense of satisfaction. I am very much committed to my duty. I joined politics at a very young age. So, I have always been working closely with the people. I know every nook and corner of our village, I know the core problems of our place and people. This will help me make solid plans and programs for holistic development of this place. The constitution has given certain power and responsibility to those in the deputy post. I am aware of it. I would like to assure that I will not let the people who voted for me down. 

Pradip Chandra Rai, Chief, Chulachuli Rural Municipality 
My victory was possible due to everyone's support and encouragement. So, I would like to express my gratitude to one and all. I am going to make a master plan for the development of this place. For this, I have a plan to draw the best ideas from the locals themselves and all other concerned stakeholders. We do have problem of proper settlement, irrigation, road, water and so on. We are going to ensure basic facilities at first. I will work as people's servant, not their master.

Nirmala Dahal, Deputy Chief, Chulachuli Rural Municipality 
 I have spent too many years in social service. This has given me a lot of idea about the people and society. I am very much familiar with the problems of women. Even though we must strive for overall development, I believe that there is a need to bring women in equal footing to men. If they are empowered, the change will automatically reflect in the society. We got to get rid of domestic violence. There should be a sense of freedom and happiness in the society. Everyone must get an opportunity to live a dignified life and I will work hard for that.

 
• people
 
• servant
 
• master
 
• vox pop