Gagan Thapa, the president of the Nepali Congress and leader of the opposition, has communicated five important messages to the government.
In a speech on Sunday following a meeting with party officials at the Nepali Congress central office.
Thapa expressed his concerns about police actions, freedom of expression, accountability, the fairness of investigations, and the independence of state institutions.
He emphasized that the government should not misuse its five year electoral victory to threaten political opponents and restrict freedoms.
Thapa also stated that the ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) must be held accountable for both positive and negative actions.
1. Respect the Law and Avoid Abuse of Power
Thapa highlighted concerns about individuals creating their own rules.
He also pointed out issues with the government’s and media’s behavior, particularly regarding freedom of expression.
The arrest of journalists should not be viewed in isolation; it reflects broader issues of government and police power abuse.
No individual or group should consider themselves above the state.
2. Ensure Government Accountability
Thapa stated that the ruling party must go beyond mere statements and actively hold the RSP accountable by questioning the prime minister in parliament.
He noted past incidents, such as cars being parked at media organizations, and asked what actions were taken following those events.
“We want results,” he said, stressing that the government must be responsible for its decisions and actions.
3. Accountability for RSP Decisions
Thapa reminded that when the Nepali Congress was in power, the RSP called for accountability from the ruling party.
He questioned if the RSP would now take responsibility for their decisions.
“They cannot claim credit for good decisions while blaming the prime minister for issues,” he said, emphasizing the need for ownership of the government as a whole.
4. Support Fair Investigations
Thapa affirmed the Nepali Congress’s support for fair investigations into public cases and insisted that wrongdoers must be held accountable.
He expressed concern that the government is not conducting fair investigations and is selectively holding certain individuals accountable based on political views.
To maintain credibility, all significant cases should be thoroughly investigated, and investigations should not be used for political gain.
5. Strengthen State Institutions
Thapa stated that a strong government means strong institutions, not just a strong prime minister.
He called for robust police, civil services, judiciary, and constitutional bodies to build public confidence.
He noted that government workers and businesspeople are feeling uncertain and anxious, and the government should bolster confidence in the economy.
Additionally, he stressed the need for an independent judiciary and constitution, along with greater focus on disaster management and economic stability.
Opposition’s Role in Government Actions
Thapa acknowledged that the RSP has a five year mandate to govern, which the Nepali Congress respects.
However, he emphasized that this does not give them the right to govern through fear, and questions should still be raised.
He also advocated for more dialogue with civil society and the younger generation, highlighting the importance of constructive criticism and inquiry from the opposition.
Thapa’s five messages to the government stress the importance of respecting the law, ensuring accountability, taking responsibility for decisions, conducting fair investigations, and maintaining the independence of state institutions.