Kathmandu: Nepali Congress President and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has reiterated his firm support for a federal democratic republican system rooted in inclusivity and representation. Speaking at the 30th anniversary of the Democratic Thought Society and its 27th general assembly, Deuba said that there is no alternative to the current system and that necessary improvements must be made through cooperation and coordination.

Deuba noted that no political party has won a clear majority under the proportional representation system, and therefore coalition governments have become the norm. He emphasized that a joint government formed by the first and second largest parties in Parliament is working to correct present shortcomings and promote people-centric development. He also highlighted the progress made in infrastructure, health, irrigation, and drinking water following the restoration of democracy in 2048 BS (1991 AD). Deuba praised the ongoing Sagarmatha Dialogue for bringing global attention to Nepal's efforts in addressing climate change and protecting its mountain ecosystem.

Leaders Raise Concerns Over Economic and Governance Issues

During the event themed "Changes Brought About by the System," senior Nepali Congress leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala expressed concern about Nepal’s inclusion on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, urging the government to investigate remittance inflows and their potential link to the delayed appointment of the Nepal Rastra Bank governor. He criticized the growing problems of misgovernance, impunity, and unemployment, and called for robust policies to address these challenges.

Congress leader Arjun Narsingh KC stressed the importance of the rule of law for good governance, citing recent reports from the World Justice Forum, which ranked Nepal at minus 48 percent in rule-of-law indicators. He also noted Nepal’s drop in the annual corruption index, highlighting increasing corruption in public institutions.

Democratic Thought Society Urged to Uphold Values

Other speakers at the event also emphasized the Society’s role in strengthening democracy. Former Minister Dr. Suresh Malla called on the Society to advocate for truth and accountability, while former President Harihar Dahal recalled the group’s resistance to the controversial "Pajero culture" during Deuba’s earlier tenure. He asserted that no government has the right to abuse power and praised the Society's efforts in challenging such practices.

Dr. Kedar Narsingh KC highlighted the need for the Society to focus on the institutional development of democratic values, while senior journalist Purushottam Dahal stressed that leadership rotation is vital to ensure political progress. President of the Society, Kulchandra Wagle, said that the existing system has brought change, but continuous advocacy is necessary to sustain democracy.

The Society, founded on Jestha 3, 2052 BS (May 17, 1995), continues to play a key role in promoting democratic thought, rule of law, and political accountability in Nepal.