In a couple of days, the six-year term of the Chairman of the National Assembly of Nepal, Ganesh Prasad Timilsina, will end. In this interview, Timilsina discusses with The Himalayan Times his journey from the picturesque village of Parbat to his election from Gandaki province in March 2018 to the Chair of Nepal's Upper House of Parliament. Excerpts:

What are your most significant accomplishments as Chairperson of the National Assembly?

If I had to choose just three accomplishments, I would say that, for the most part, we could conduct our Assembly with consensus. In our Assembly, we have made a conscious effort to be on time, even though Nepalis tend to overlook punctuality. I believe that waiting around is bad for progress. Third, despite the delay at the source, we have handled every piece of legislation professionally brought to us. Our discussions have been in-depth and vigorous regardless of which House the legislation originated.

Which personal characteristics or qualities have helped you succeed in this position?

I try to remember the value of honesty in everything we do. Since the first day I took office, I have been committed to doing my duties honestly and upholding my reputation. Punctuality is another trait that is a reflex and has served me well. Coming from a small village in Parbat, I spent my childhood climbing hills and walking long distances. My mountain stamina comes in handy in my work. Finally, I believe in straightforward communication. I recognise others' accomplishments and give credit where it is due. I am pleased that my three daughters have embraced these qualities, too.

A political figure must resign from their position to become Chairperson of Nepal's National Assembly, even if their political affiliation and ideology are inextricably linked to their identity. How can they achieve impartiality?

A political cadre who has served, adhered to, and been elected on a party platform has difficulty remaining politically unbiased. Although neither our national law nor our constitution requires it, it is customary for the Chairperson of the National Assembly to be impartial, as evidenced by giving up their party affiliation. When I took on this position, my party's Prime Minister and Chairperson, Mr. K.P. Sharma Oli, encouraged me to remain party-neutral and level the playing field. The party's and Chairperson's support for my appointment as the Nation Assembly's impartial Chair reaffirmed my dedication to this role.

How did you interact with the provincial legislatures during your tenure?

The Upper House, has eight provincial representatives who are appointed by local and provincial elected officials. So elected provincial and municipal officials are my electorate and my emotional connection to them is strong. In collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the WHO, I organized a national in-person briefing and crisis communication training session for all seven provincial parliaments during the COVID-19 pandemic (WHO). This program combated rumors and misinformation during a pandemic. It was an unforgettable experience showing how provincial parliaments and the Upper House must work together.

How did you maintain your relationship with the opposition?

I always try to remain objective, regardless of who is in charge and I encourage open discussions and consensus building. If there are any disagreements, I would prefer bilateral discussions to resolve them. During my election and appointment, a majority of voters chose me unopposed.

Corruption is a severe yet chronic challenge in the region. What are your thoughts?

All political parties in Nepal must agree on a common minimum program to deal with this menace. Adopting a zero-tolerance policy for corruption and providing political cadres with appropriate training are necessary. While we often talk about corruption in our society, it is equally important to speak of corruption within political parties. The excuse that we are too poor and aid-dependant to tackle corruption effectively is unacceptable. Except for Bhutan, our neighbourhood has fallen even further in Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index 2023, lowering the already appallingly low global rankings. Those rankings lead to the formation of a stereotype, which shapes people's opinions of us. Unfortunately, today, the word politician in Nepal has become synonymous with corruption.

Nepal has historically relied on foreign aid. What is your experience with parliamentary programs collaborating with UN agencies and international non-governmental organisations?

We are working with UNDP and the Parliament Support Program (PHP) under an explicit agreement. However, other programs lack transparency and may only work with parliamentary committees rather than parliamentarian leadership. These programs lack a detailed work plan that specifies where funds should be allocated and which programs should be supported. When it comes to UN programs, flexibility is essential. They must adapt to changing circumstances and facilitate bilateral discussions. We presented a unique COVID-19 parliamentary engagement program with WHO at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). Due to Nepal's health gap, Dr. Tedros, the WHO Director General, assured me in Kathmandu that the program would continue and progress to a health policy dialogue. However, it was abandoned. His promises were ignored by their country office. Envy and internal politics at the WHO country office may have ended a great partnership. The well-paid foreign agency heads in Nepal must prioritize Nepal's needs and keep their promises. Support for Nepal should not be expressed through unnecessary social media posts and flattery but genuine and solid work.

Politicians in general, especially those in South Asia, struggle to stay grounded once in power. Have you accomplished it?

The true essence of leadership is to stay connected to the people who elected you. When you hold a position of power, it is easy to lose touch with reality. However, I've never forgotten my roots or my foundation. I believe my current positions are temporary, and I will eventually return to my village. I have always been involved at the grassroots level and prioritised their needs. Despite my hectic schedule, I always find time to attend village programs and listen to their needs.

Who have been your political mentors?

My first mentor was Marxist-Leninist ideology, which significantly impacted my life. Regarding philosophy, Russon and Maxim Gorky's works have left an indelible impression on me. Many great leaders have inspired me, but Madan Bhandari, Manmohan Adhikari, Pushpa Lal Shrestha, and KP Sharma Oli are notable recent examples. Madan Bhandari for his immense listening skills and the ability to correct himself based on party cadre feedback and of course his charisma and ability to persuade others, even those with opposing viewpoints, were truly remarkable. Similarly KP Oli for working tirelessly toward his goals, even when his health was not optimal. Unlike other leaders who follow the wind, KP Oli takes a stand when appropriate and required.

Is Marx's ideology still relevant to today's capitalist society?

Since it is an ideology, Marxist-Leninist ideology will never disappear. Understanding how different cultures interpret it is fascinating. Although China is Marxist-Leninist, their revolution was different. Its manifestation depends on context. Did you know Marxists never supported one-party? Communist Party of Nepal won the election when this ideology faced global uncertainty. Marxist-Leninists are elected worldwide even though comunist governments no longer exist. '

Chaakdi' (Bootlicking) is widespread in Nepal and South Asia. How do you deal with this phenomen?

I don't believe in 'chaakdi' or bootlicking. I never engage in bootlicking because it is not how I work, and people do not come to me for it. Some people may attempt to gain my favour by lavishing me with compliments, regardless of whether my actions are good or bad. This is especially problematic when people use flattery to hide my mistakes. I protect myself by frequently interacting at the grassroots and understanding the true feelings about my work. Second, I often seek the opinions of people I know to be independent-minded and candid. Finally, my three daughters and wife are independent thinkers who never hesitate to express opinions. In addition, people see that I am not a bootlicker, so I do not attract bootlickers.

Globally, and especially in our region, elderly leaders seem unwilling to retire. What are your thoughts on this?

Why only Nepal, we see leaders around the world holding onto their jobs until their deathbed. In this case, eligibility is based on effectiveness rather than age. Politicians should only hold positions if they are effective and capable of serving the people. Of course, this depends on the party and the people who vote and believe in it. More importantly, our political parties should establish a practical training and coaching system. Mentorship across generations within a political party should be a systematic and measurable process. Like Singapore, succession plans within political parties should become the norm. This will give youth leaders a clear career path and encourage them to commit to their political journey.

What gives you a sense of political accomplishment, and what is left to be done?

In Nepal, we witnessed a peaceful transition from monarchy to republic, setting a global example. We approved a constitution drafted by the people, and I consider myself fortunate to have been a part of this process and to work in government. Unfortunately, the federal government has not yet passed enough legislation, making it difficult for local and provincial governments to operate. Corruption has increased, as has nepotism and bureaucracy in government offices. We need to urgently fix this critical gaps. We are fortunate to live in a country with such beautiful natural surroundings. Our flora, fauna, festivals, and resilience should help us find hope every day.