Games people play

Krishna Pokharel’s edit page article “Government formation” (THT, Aug 12) raises important questions that concern every Nepali. The leaders of major political parties whose role has been obstructive rather than accommodative in on-going negotiations should respond to those questions. Nepalis are at a loss to understand why ‘democratic’ parties apply double standards in dealing with each other. Are these manoeuvrings only ploys to grab power, in total defiance of the people’s mandate?

The political leaders, especially those of the NC, must convince the public why a key ministerial portfolio like defence should be denied to the CPN-Maoist that has been given the mandate to lead the country. The political parties cannot continue to take people for a ride.

Hira B Thapa, Kathmandu

Saddening

Instead of resolving problems that common Nepalis are beset with, Nepali political leaders are guided more by their hunger for power than love of their country. We wish to see the formation of a stable government, immediate solution to the fuel and food crisis and maintenance of law and order. Surprisingly, the government, which collects a huge chunk of its revenue from tourism has doubled visa charges and has limited maximum stay of tourists in Nepal to 150 days. Longer stay means more expenses, which would benefit not only the tourism industry but the whole economy. The government of Nepal should take steps to attract more tourists into the country rather than disappointing even the ones who are here.

Langer Thomas, via e-mail

Reach out

Apropos of the editorial “Enter sandman” (THT, Aug 13), it is commendable that the Nepal Women, Children and Human Rights Forum rescued 13 children who were forced into begging for food and money from a welfare centre in the capital. However, compared to efforts of dozens of NGOs and INGOs that purport to be working for the protection of child rights, the number of the children who are actually helped is insignificant. In the capital alone, there are hundreds of children in desperate need of help. The government and child rights groups should reach out to them.

Shiva Neupane, Australia

Demoralising

Nepali players have all along been very enthusiastic about their participation in Beijing Olympics in order to showcase their talents at the world stage. However, it was a disappointment that while players of other countries were accompanied by heads of state, our players were with a sports minister who had already tendered his resignation.

Sulav Dahal, Tinkune, Kathmandu

Incorrect

This is in reference to the news report “CPN-Maoist body against power projects in Karnali” (THT, August 10). I would like to draw your attention that the Autonomous Council Karnali (ACK), as stated in the report, is not a Maoist affiliated organisation. It is an independent front that has been demanding autonomy for the Karnali region. It is true that our council has some Maoist cadres, but our party has nothing to do with the Maoists per se.

Gorak Bhahadur BC, Chairman, ACK