Narahari Acharya, a senior Nepali Congress leader, has held ministerial portfolio in the past. Known for his squeaky clean image, he is an avid follower of democratic norms, and has the potential to lead the party, which has been beset with internal problems, in the near future. The 56-yr-old leader spoke to Prakash Acharya of The Himalayan Times at his residence in Chundevi in the capital on wide-ranging issues. Excerpts from the interview:

How do see the future of our country?

Nepal can definitely be transformed into a welfare and prosperous state. I’m hopeful that it’ll make rapid strides over the next few years. However, the political forces ought to put in place a strong democratic system. Besides, all parties should adhere to democratic norms. The NC being the largest party, with an abiding faith in democratic values, will not only play a prominent role but also help other parties to fall in line. Our immediate task should be to change the NC’s work culture. I’m optimistic that a revamped NC would play an historic role in the days to come.

Your party is beset with various internal problems. How do you say that the NC will undergo a transformation, and lead all democratic campaigns in the future?

Akin to the state of the

nation, the NC, too, is on the verge of transformation. The Mahasamiti meeting has already set the ball rolling to bring about palpable changes in the organisational structure. The difference in approach will be evident in the upcoming General Convention (GC), which will be held in March. Once our house is in order, we’ll able to lead all national campaigns that will foster the

democratic spirit. Our party is only credible and able

political force. But, we can only carry out onerous task of nation-building after

internal issues are settled for once and all. Preparations are on in full swing to

realise our cherished goal.

What’s the significance of the 12th GC?

This time around, it won’t be a regular GC. The conclave will be an ideal forum to address national agendas, and make our party play the role of a guardian angel to establish true democratic spirit. A new leadership will also come into force on the occasion. We’ve undergone a lot of ups and downs in

recent times. The GC will help to correct the intra-party imbalances.

What are the major problems in the NC? Who do you think are responsible for weakening the party?

The NC has been pleading for accountability and democracy for the past 60 years. However, our intention got diluted, thanks to incompetent party leadership. Our leaders refused to take responsibility for the gradual decline, which peaked after the last year’s Constituent Assembly results — triggering a serious in-house moral crisis. Though we’ve a strong ideology, lack of effective implementation of our policies and programmes has been the bane. The 12th GC will assess and evaluate all these issues. At the end of the day, the responsibility rests, well and truly, with the party president and office-bearers.

Why has the NC been

unable to develop credible and competent leadership among the newer

generation?

The party leadership has ignored the newer generation for long. Consequently, we failed to reach out to our supporters and sympathisers, eroding our base among the masses.

How do you assess the role of main opposition Unified-CPN-Maoist?

Though UCPN-Maoist emerged as the single largest party in the CA polls, it failed to take other political forces into confidence. The Maoists have been busy paying heed to their vested interests. No wonder, it’s losing credibility both at home and abroad. They failed to lead the coalition government, and now want to reclaim power again. But the entire process of renunciation and renewed demand is unclear. Their statements ring hollow and contradictory. The birth and growth of the party is evident enough that it wants to use democracy as a strategic tool to grab state power. The Maoists will be on the wane unless they follow a democratic path. Our biggest challenge will be to make them embrace democracy.

The UCPN-Maoist has

established itself as most

influential party. But you’re predicting its decline. How can that be possible?

The Maoists received a lot of national and international support on the basis of their good showing in the CA elections. Scratch the surface, and the grim reality emerges. They sought vote while agreeing to comply with the Comprehensive Peace Accord. But, now they’re showing their true colours. Turning a blind eye to the law, they continue to encourage impunity. The Maoists have breached

people’s trust reposed in them. How can it be the single largest party if it is playing ducks and drakes with popular mandate?

You were the only competitor to NC president Girija Prasad Koirala in the 11th GC. Will you vie for the post this time around as well?

I’m planning to give it a crack again. Earlier, I had received 14 per cent of vote even though the tide was against me. I feel I’m on stronger wicket now since there is a clamour for able and transparent leadership. I possess these attributes. Besides, I’m being encouraged to contest by a large section of leaders and workers. I sincerely hope that the best candidate will emerge winner in the 12th GC.