Only peace can ensure better opportunities

Kathmandu, April 27:

People in general and various professionals have heaved a sigh of relief following the end of agitations. Most are hopeful that political parties will fulfil people’s aspirations for economic upliftment and pave the path for ‘income generating activities.’

People have great expectations from this 2006 people’s movement. They feel that political stability is essential for sound economic progress and dissemination of the fruits of development across the country, they commented.

Shesh Dhungana, a management expert from Chabhahil, expressed his happiness over the change in political system hoping that it would create wonderful opportunities.

He is of the view that expectations of people are high. Therefore, one of the major jobs of the SPA would be to establish lasting peace and explore business opportunities and create more employment. Retaining the Nepali youth who are gradually migrating to different parts of the globe is a serious challenge, he said. Dhungana hoped that peaceful talks with the Maoists can only make way for economic prosperity.

Sabita Sapkota, staff nurse at the Teaching Hospital, also opined that for economic prosperity and political stability, a peaceful settlement with the Maoists is a must. SPA has to work on a common agenda for people and fulfill their commitment, she suggested.

Bibek Timilsina, a minibus driver from Kavre district, said that he sees 50-50 chance for peace talks between the Maoists and the SPA. He expressed his joy over the end of the 19-day long strike which has turned out to be productive.

Madhusudan Karki, another taxi driver from Charikot, Dolakha suggested that leaders should focus more on economic upliftment of Nepali people rather than politics. ‘Peace’ has to be there to ensure sustained prosperity, he added.

Prof Bhuwan Bajracharya, an economist by profession opined that if the new government does not work for effective implementation of policies and ensure good governance, the change in the political system would be of no use. He is of the view that ‘professionals’ should be hired at the policy-making level. He felt ‘outsourcing’ is the need of the hour as government machineries are found to be very weak right now.

He urged the government to work for decentralisation both in fiscal affairs and empowerment perspectives and create strong institutions and legal provisions.