Kathmandu: Former Prime Minister and Chairman of Nepal Samajwadi Party (Naya Shakti), Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, has stated that Nepal is gradually progressing in a positive direction with the establishment of a federal democratic republic after years of struggle. Speaking to RSS Chief Reporter Narayan Neupane and Reporter Ashok Ghimire, Dr. Bhattarai acknowledged that while the people have been empowered, there are unmet demands related to development, employment, and prosperity.

Challenges in Governance and Institutions
Dr. Bhattarai pointed out that good governance has not been fully realized due to the weakened state of public institutions such as the bureaucracy, judiciary, and security bodies. However, he emphasized that these issues can be effectively addressed through democratic means.

Reinstatement of Monarchy: A ‘Sponsored Act’
Addressing concerns about rumors regarding the reinstatement of the monarchy, Dr. Bhattarai dismissed them as worrisome but artificially orchestrated. He noted that in a multiparty democracy, there will always be progressive, status-quoist, and regressive forces, and any ideological debates should be resolved through democratic procedures.

"I don’t see the possibility of monarchy returning. Such discussions only waste time and energy," he remarked. Dr. Bhattarai also stressed that Nepal’s current constitution does not provide any space for a former king, as sovereignty firmly rests with the people.

Potential Risks of Constitutional Disruption
Dr. Bhattarai warned that dismantling the Constituent Assembly-promulgated constitution, which was achieved through people’s struggle and sacrifices, would lead to complications. He further cautioned that any external influences in Nepal’s geopolitically sensitive landscape could harm the nation’s stability and citizens' welfare.

Strengthening Democracy Through Reform
Highlighting the need for internal democratic corrections, Dr. Bhattarai asserted that the only alternative to democracy is a more mature democracy. He called for political consensus and collaboration among all parties to make democracy more participatory and transparent by ensuring good governance.

Call for Executive Stability Through Constitutional Amendments
Dr. Bhattarai reiterated that Nepal has adopted an improved parliamentary system, but the mixed electoral system has caused instability. To enhance stability, he suggested adopting a directly-elected executive presidential system at the federal level and a directly-elected chief minister at the provincial level, ensuring a fixed five-year term for executives. He urged all stakeholders to consider amending the constitution accordingly.