KATHMANDU: The CPN-UML’s Mechi Mahakali Padayatra, spearheaded by Chairman KP Sharma Oli, has been making waves – quite literally – as it kicks up dust across 26 districts on the Mid-Hill Highway.

However, amidst the whirlwind of around 300 vehicles, the campaign seems to be more about delivering empty speeches than addressing the real issues faced by the public.

Initiated on November 30 from Jhulaghat in Baitadi, the campaign is currently meandering through Ramechhap, leaving a trail of dust and a question mark on its effectiveness.

While party leaders claim it’s an opportunity to understand the challenges of the Mid-Hill districts, critics argue that it’s just another show of political grandstanding.

“The campaign is helping the party identify problems,” says Mahesh Bartaula, the party whip. However, skeptics argue that the campaign is more focused on the party’s self-promotion than on listening to the concerns of the public.

Even CPN-UML Deputy General Secretary Pradeep Gyawali admits that the campaign may have fallen short in addressing the people’s problems, citing an unexpected surge in well-wishers and limited time.

As the campaign rolls on, concerns about its financial burden on the party become apparent. With around 300 vehicles to fuel, more than 300 participants to accommodate, and hotels to book, the cost is estimated to be between 10 to 15 lakhs rupees in each district, according to a UML source.

In the midst of the dust storm, the question lingers: Is the UML’s grand journey truly connecting with the people, or is it merely a theatrical display with a hefty price tag? Only time will unveil the true impact of this political spectacle.