A clear message

The huge success of the Constituent Assembly election is a matter of pride for all Nepalis. The massive turnout despite the threat of violence sends a clear message that Nepalis are ready to face any kind of danger for the cause of democracy. It also demonstrates the power of popular will. The international observers who were here to facilitate the peace process too deserve credit for the success of the polls.

Eak Prasad Duwadi,

Dhola, Dhading

Poll pride

Despite huge odds, CA election has been peaceful throughout the country. This shows that Nepalis are ready for change and to usher in a new political order. All Nepalis can hold their heads high for acting responsibly in the lead-up to the polls. India’s role in bringing the decade-long cycle of violence to an end should also be appreciated.

Praveen Kumar Yadav,

Media Monitoring Centre, Birgunj

Real test

The landslide victory of CPN-Maoist is a clear sign of changing political climate in Nepali politics, partly the result of failure of other major political parties to address the grievances of common masses. The changed circumstances raise hopes for a progressive and prosperous new Nepal. The Maoists should consider the unprecedented support of Nepalis as an opportunity to fulfil their commitment to build a new Nepal. The real test for the political parties would be to draft a new constitution guaranteeing inclusion of marginalised and downtrodden communities in all state organs and establishment of a political order that addresses all their needs.

Pujan Sharma, Kathmandu

New statute

The soon-to-be-formed Constituent Assembly must draft a constitution that reflects the aspirations of the masses. It should also make provisions to tackle corruption by empowering the anti-graft body. The constitution should empower law enforcement bodies to confiscate the illegally accumulated assets of government officials and put an effective mechanism in place to end the state of impunity.

V P Sayami, Kathmandu

Keep promise

Nepalis were able to cast their votes in an atmospehre free of terror and violence because of improved security situation. With the begining of the Nepali New Year, they have renewed hopes of institutionalising democracy and consolidating the achievements of Jana

Aandolan II. The Maoists who have been entrusted with the great task of nation building should do everything to justify the trust of the masses. The Maoists should honour their

promises and work for the welfare of Nepali people.

Dwaipayan Regmi,

Biratnagar

Water woes

Water scarcity has been a perennial problem in the capital. Rain water harvesting is an effective method of collecting water that could help meet water demand of the residents of the Valley. The government, NGOs and INGOs should launch awareness campaigns about the benefits of rainwater harvesting.

Rabin Rachalica, Green Team, Bhaktapur