Primed for pessimism

The SPA agreement to set aside inter-party differences for the upcoming CA polls could not have come sooner, “SPA partners agree to put an end to clashes” (THT, March 25), as such an accord, irrespective of its repercussions on the ground, shows that the political parties are still willing to work together for the success of the forthcoming election — and beyond. This bodes well for the future of a republican Nepal that will first and foremost require unity amidst the diversity of political ideologies and beliefs. Nepalis have the annoying habit of sensing gloom even when the prospects, by and large, look rosy. With the country at the doorstep of unprecedented transformation, it is about time they started seeing the bright side of things as well.

Suman Dahal, Ghattekulo

Downhill

This refers to the news report “Nepal pulls out as tourney host” (THT, March 25). It is sad for Nepali soccer fans that Nepal has backed out of hosting the 2008 AFC President’s Cup group stage matches citing unstable political situation in the country. Talking about the state of football, the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) has not helped the cause of the sports with its faulty process of picking the national squad. Instead of picking amateurs, ANFA should focus on providing the players with necessary training before they are selected for international tournaments.

Manoj Thapa, via e-mail

Unsure

This is in reference to the news report “YCL at it again: Oli attacked, RPP-N rally

disrupted” (THT, March 25). It is inconsiderate of the Young Communist League to target candidates of other political parties in fray for the upcoming CA polls. This indicates that the Maoists are far from confident about their poll prospects. Now that the Maoists have joined mainstream politics, they should act like a responsible political party.

Rekha Thapa, Ratopul,

Kathmandu

Old game

With the election just a fortnight away and almost all political parties making public their election manifestos, the poll candidates have stepped up campaigning too. However, most of the election manifestos envision a utopian society instead of looking to address the real issues. Moreover, most of the candidates have stuck to the campaigning methods they employed during previous elections. This suggests that CA election is unlikely to bring in any sweeping changes. Nepalis people should therefore use their discretion so as to come up with right candidates for the job.

Chadan Thapa, via e-mail

Dead wrong

The crackdown against Tibetan protestors shows the indifference of Nepali government to the plight of Tibetan exiles who are peacefully protesting China’s repressive policies in Tibet, “59 protesting Tibetan refugees detained, fired” (THT, March 18). Recent train of events in Tibet and subsequent worldwide demonstrations by Tibetans have brought Tibet under international spotlight.

According to the Tibetan government in exile, at least 130 people have died in the crackdown by Chinese troops. Nepal should uphold its commitment to the principles of democracy.

Nyima Gyalpo, Kathmandu