It is a proven fact that no society can remain static because of its dynamic nature. It should be properly guided and taken forward not only by mending past mistakes but also by introducing new elements objectively to shape the changes in the overall interests of the country and its people. In the case of Nepal, everything seems to be going topsy-turvy though a golden opportunity was afforded to it by the people after the successful movement to build a new and vibrant Nepali society. What is really painful is not to make any attempt to learn from others in a similar situation as to what a nation should do in times of crisis and distress. What is deplorable in the case of Nepal is not to provide immediate relief to the aggrieved and mitigate their pains even for the time being, forget about devising ways and means to minimize and control the damage as far as possible by following the right course for a bright future.
In the context, it is pertinent to remind ourselves that four years have already elapsed and yet those genuinely affected people during the decade-long conflict are struggling to survive against heavy odds because of gross negligence and indifference of our present leaders toward their plight. The political leaders who had to demonstrate and prove their caliber, commitment and sincerity in managing the state affairs following death, destruction and deprivation in various forms have largely failed because of their differences, attitude, distrust and hardheadedness. At a time like this when national consensus, understanding and cooperation could resurrect a dilapidated and docile society and take the country toward peace, stability and progress, ignoring this reality is causing the collapse of the national agreement.
Whatever the arguments presented to the people in defending their weaknesses, misdeeds, corrupt and undemocratic practices, they now stand very little chance of regaining people’s trust and support. The fear that is haunting every Nepali and foreign friend is the kind of civil unrest and violent conflict that might start anytime in coming days with dire consequences to and from neighboring countries India and China.
The government’s insistence on bidding adieu to United Nations Mission in Nepal prematurely proves that its eyes are yet to open.
Instead of acknowledging their failures publicly and sending a clear message of ‘no more irresponsible behavior and squabbles’, the same leaders are trying to divest and distract the attention of the people by creating an atmosphere of fear of foreign interference, intervention and dominance. After all, who is to take the responsibility of managing the state affairs and solving the internal problems of the country?
The latest report presented to the United Nations Security Council and the concern shown by the Assistant Secretary General Mr B Lynn Pascoe at the delay in completing the peace process within the constituent assembly’s extended four-month period should have opened the eyes of the Nepali government and political party leaders to the seriousness of the matter. But the government’s insistence on bidding adieu to United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN) prematurely proves that its eyes are yet to open. If it were confident of taking the peace process to a logical end on its own, why did it seek UNMIN’s presence and cooperation at the start of the peace process? Finding fault with the conduct and attitude of UNMIN (being lenient to Maoists) after taking its service for nearly four years is simply a lame excuse to escape from popular wrath and condemnation for its own serious mistakes and failures.
If the present leaders fail to work out a reasonably acceptable agreement by themselves, which is not within sight right now, where will they turn to? India? China? From a strategic and geopolitical point of view, would it be right to ask them to help us in our internal affairs? This is the time to think about Nepal’s interests first and then decide which way to go. So, do not make haste. Take your time. The best option right now is UNMIN as far as Nepal is concerned. In fact, it has been a source of strength and asset to crisis-ridden Nepal for almost four years. Remember that it is never late to revise and correct wrong decisions and start afresh with renewed zeal and team spirit for the greater interests of the country and its people.
Writer is a former prime minister of Nepal
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