Prachanda blames parties for constitutional lapses

KATHMANDU: CPN (Maoist Centre) Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal, also known as Prachanda, has alleged that while Nepal’s Constitution is inherently sound, political parties have shown reluctance in its proper implementation, leading to various problems.

Speaking to journalists at Biratnagar Airport on Thursday, he said that although the Constitution is well-crafted in light of both domestic and international circumstances, the failure to enact laws as envisioned has created challenges.

Prachanda emphasized that political parties, especially those currently in coalitions, have neglected the drafting of laws in accordance with the Constitution’s spirit and intent. “One issue is the lack of interest in making laws according to this Constitution.

Particularly, parties in today’s coalition showed disinterest in aligning legislation with the Constitution from the very beginning, which created implementation problems,” he said.

Return of Former President and Vice President to Active Politics ‘Natural’

Prachanda also defended the return of former President and Vice President to active politics, stating that it does not undermine the Constitution. Citing international examples, he noted that former heads of state and high-ranking officials around the world often re-enter politics after their terms end. “The Constitution or laws do not prohibit a President or party leader from engaging in politics. This is merely a debate without legal basis,” he said.

He added that it is natural for former officeholders to return to their parties after completing their tenure. Regarding former President Bidya Devi Bhandari, Prachanda said her membership renewal was done with the agreement of KP Sharma Oli, clarifying that any rumors of a “Plan B” to make her party chairperson were baseless. He claimed his party has opened the door for both former Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun and Bhandari to participate actively in politics.

Boundary Issues with India

On foreign policy, Prachanda disclosed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has committed to resolving border disputes including Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura.

He said that during his tenure as Prime Minister, he stressed that unresolved boundary issues could affect bilateral relations and that discussions with Modi indicated a mutual commitment to resolve remaining disputes through dialogue.

Party Discipline and Internal Groups

Prachanda also spoke about the party’s efforts to dissolve self-serving factions.

He defined such groups as those prioritizing personal interests over the party’s line, methods, or leadership. On questions regarding Janardan Sharma ‘Prabhakar,’ Prachanda maintained that the party’s movement and history would not be hindered by a single individual. “Our Standing Committee has clarified this matter. We will review relevant inputs in the upcoming leadership meeting,” he said.