Kathmandu: President Ramchandra Paudel has voiced his persistent unease regarding the effective fulfillment of the roles and responsibilities prescribed by the Constitution, which designates him as a custodian of the Constitution and a promoter of national unity.

During a convened all-party meeting at Shital Niwas, the Presidential Office, President Paudel expressed his apprehensions about potential challenges to the Constitution and the political framework. In the gathering, the President's press advisor, Kiran Pokhrel, quoted him as urging an evaluation of the extent to which the principles of the separation and balance of power have been upheld in spirit and practice.

The President clarified, "I am not attempting to exhibit activism. As a political cadre, I have personally endured significant hardships for the cause of democracy." He underscored his intention to engage with political parties to share his concerns encompassing the Constitution, political structure, and the nation's well-being.

President Paudel expressed his concern over the delay in enacting crucial laws required for implementing the federal system. He highlighted the lingering lack of legislation pertaining to truth, reconciliation, and enforced disappearance. He warned that the unaddressed nature of these issues could hinder the realization of people's aspirations for peace.

The President also raised an alarm over Nepal's recent inclusion in the "Pre-Gray List" by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), emphasizing the collective responsibility to promptly pass the anti-money laundering act. He stressed that this measure was essential to lift Nepal's international image and avert potential negative impacts on foreign investment and economic growth during the current economic downturn.

He urged political parties to seriously consider the implications and promptly pass legislation related to combating money laundering.

The President expressed optimism about the reported progress among political parties toward ending the prolonged parliamentary deadlock, which serves as a platform for representing the citizens' voices. He voiced hope for a swift resolution to resume parliamentary activities.

While acknowledging the occasional emergence of disputes and conflicts among political parties, he emphasized their resolution through discussion, dialogue, and mutual understanding, asserting that this was the essence of democracy.

President Paudel highlighted the need for political parties to collaboratively address shared national responsibilities, including matters of national security, unemployment, corruption control, economic development, and foreign policy. He urged vigilance, as failing to meet these responsibilities and neglecting the people's expectations could erode public confidence in the established democratic system.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' lauded the President's commitment to safeguarding and implementing the Constitution, fostering parliamentary operation aligned with public aspirations, and encouraging cooperation among political parties. He expressed his alignment with these principles and acknowledged ongoing discussions to resolve issues.

Prime Minister Dahal extended gratitude to President Paudel for initiating the process and noted the proximity to reaching a consensus for resuming parliamentary proceedings.

In addition to Prime Minister Dahal, the meeting was attended by Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba, CPN (Unified Socialist) Chairperson Madhav Kumar Nepal, Rastriya Swatantra Party Chairperson Rabi Lamichhane, Rastriya Janamorcha Chairperson Chitra Bahadur KC, Nagarik Unmukti Party Chairperson Ranjita Shrestha, Janata Samajbadi Party leader Pradeep Yadav, and Abdul Khan of Janamat Party, among others.