Do rather than talk:

Jenik Radon’s article “Constituent assembly” (THT, July 19), where he proposes broad people’s participation in the constituent assembly (CA), was interesting. I agree that the new constitution should be a mirror for every citizen to see his or her reflection. This is very important for a diverse country like Nepal. Radon puts forward the example of Nelson Mandela as a great leader who was chosen by a CA. Except the late BP Koirala I cannot think of any other leader who can compare to the likes of Mandela. But even Koirala will be hard put to be chosen unanimously. Our leaders are always high on rhetoric and short on action. What we need is an inclusive constitution, and, more importantly, the people who can translate the words into action.

Milan Gurung, via e-mail

NC tactic:

Indications are that Nepali Congress (NC) wants to remain in power by prolonging the parliament’s life. This goes against the NC’s commitment to dissolve the revived House at the earliest. This is totally unacceptable to those who fought for democracy. By the looks of things, the NC also wants to retain the institution of monarchy and deny the people a say on this issue. The NC should know that the pro-democracy movement pitted the King against the people. The people fought to end all forms of dictatorship. It was a collective effort of which the NC was only a small component. The NC should not be under any delusion that it heralded the changes on its own. The NC and its leaders should not create hurdles to the establishment of a constituent assembly that will decide the country’s future. Leaders should also be wary of speaking out their views in public lest they should be mistaken for the party’s official stance. But if such statements are being made on behalf of the party, then the NC seems to believe that it will not come to power after the new constitution is drafted. Hence, the party’s bid to prolong the current administration’s tenure. As one of the oldest parties, the NC should act more responsibly. But it seems to be more interested in wielding temporary power than working for the country’s benefit.

Rajesh Koirala, via e-mail

Interim:

If the Maoists and the seven-party alliance (SPA) have agreed on converting the House into an interim parliament till the constituent assembly elections are held, this is a very important and positive development. There should be broader people’s participation to make the CA more representative. The CA polls should lead towards the formation of separate legislative and constitution-drafting bodies.

Andrew Arato, via e-mail

Resign:

This refers to the report “Another sickening list comes to light” (THT, July 18). One of the royal beneficiaries is now a member of the high-level investigation commission, who has been advocating that the King be brought to book. This is incredible. His excuse that a former minister gave him the money for his kidney treatment is weak. How can such a person be picked for the commission? If he has an iota of morality, he should resign immediately.

Vishnu Sharma, via e-mail