Kathmandu: Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa has said that the primary objective of any constitutional amendment should be to expand and strengthen the rights secured by citizens, rather than restrict them. He stressed that any attempt to weaken the core principles of parliamentary democracy, inclusive governance or federalism under the guise of constitutional reform would be unacceptable.

Speaking at a program titled 'Nepali Congress's Perspective on Constitutional Amendment', Thapa said that while reviewing the Constitution is natural nearly a decade after its promulgation, the process must remain centered on protecting citizens' rights and preserving the Constitution's fundamental values.

Constitution's Historical Context Must Be Respected
Thapa recalled that the Constitution was drafted through broad political consensus during Nepal's post-conflict transition and said its historical background should not be overlooked while considering amendments.

He emphasized that Nepal's democratic system is founded on inclusive pluralism and that Parliament must continue to reflect the country's diverse social fabric, representing all castes, ethnic groups, languages, religions, communities and social classes.

Inclusive Representation Must Remain a Priority
Thapa said the Prime Minister elected from the House of Representatives should represent all Nepalis and reiterated the need for mandatory representation of Dalits, women, Madhesis, Muslims, Indigenous nationalities, Brahmins, Chhetris, minorities and persons with disabilities in the federal legislature.

While expressing the Nepali Congress's willingness to discuss electoral reforms, he said reforms should focus on empowering voters rather than political party leaders. However, he cautioned against attempts to replace the parliamentary system or introduce entirely new political models, describing such efforts as "unnecessary political courage" in Nepal's context.

Calls for Stronger Federalism
On federalism, Thapa argued that its purpose extends beyond administrative restructuring and is rooted in addressing historical exclusion, managing diversity and ensuring inclusive participation in governance.

He said many of the criticisms directed at federalism stem from the government's failure to fully implement the constitutional powers granted to provincial governments.

According to Thapa, the constitutional schedules defining the powers of the federal, provincial and local governments require clarification through amendment. He accused the government of weakening federalism by failing to transfer constitutionally guaranteed powers to the provinces.

Concluding his remarks, Thapa said constitutional reform should reinforce national consensus, democratic values, inclusive representation and the spirit of federalism, rather than undermine the achievements of the Constitution.