Kathmandu, December 28

Political leaders and civil society members said that if elections were held without addressing the genuine demands of the protesting forces like Madhesi, Adivasi, Muslim, Dalit and other ethnic communities, the elections would not end the current political stalemate.

They said political understanding among parties is a prerequisite for implementation of the constitution to make it acceptable to all stakeholders.

Speaking at an interaction organised by Naya Shakti Nepal in Kathmandu today, NSN Coordinator and former prime minister Baburam Bhattarai said holding election to the local bodies without amending the constitution would not end the current problems. “ Madhes problems should be addressed before holding polls,” said Bhattarai.

Bhattarai also said the constitution amendment bill tabled in the Parliament should be revised before it was passed by the House.

Tarai Madhes Democratic Party Chairman Mahantha Thakur said local bodies’ election would not help end the political stalemate in the country. “Protesting parties will not participate in the election if it is held without addressing their genuine demands,” said Thakur.

He said that some forces have been trying to reverse political gains and the country to previous state. Thakur also criticised the use of the national flag by CPN-UML in the protest against the constitution amendment bill.

Federal Socialist Forum-Nepal Chair Upendra Yadav said Madhesi parties would not accept the elections if they were imposed without addressing the protesting parties’ genuine demands. “Political parties should be ready to amend and rewrite the constitution before holding election,” Yadav added.

Yadav said the constitution amendment bill was not enough to address the demands of the agitating forces.

He further said that the constitution was written by people with racist mindset.

Former Chief Election Commissioner Bhoj Raj Pokharel said elections would not bring solution if they were conducted without forging consensus among political parties.

CPN-UML Secretary Yogesh Bhattarai said his party would end the House obstruction if the government dropped the proposal to revise provincial boundaries.

He warned that it would be unfortunate if the government and ruling parties tried to isolate his party and impose their decision.