KATHMANDU: Four groups advocating for identity-based federalism have joined forces to establish the Unified Identity Front, with plans to form a new political party.
The alliance comprises four key groups: the Identity Front led by Prof Dr Mahendra Lawati, Nepal Janamukti Party chaired by KP Palungwa, the Province 1 Renaming Campaign Committee coordinated by Dakendra Singh Thegim, and the Province 1 branch of the Citizens’ Liberation Party, headed by Gyan Bahadur Gurung.
The Unified Identity Front has committed to creating a new political force within five months, with a focus on promoting identity-based federalism, good governance, and combating corruption.
“This initiative seeks to unite fragmented identity-based movements and build a multicultural, pluralistic state,” said Lawati, who is a political science professor at Western Michigan University.
As per the agreement, Thegim will serve as the initial coordinator of the Front, following a rotational leadership model.
A task force has been formed to finalize the ideology, direction, and organizational structure of the proposed party. The group also aims to include other identity-based organizations in the future.
The eastern region of Nepal, known for its long history of identity-based movements such as the Limbuwan movement, has faced internal divisions over the years. These divisions often become pronounced during elections, weakening the movements’ impact.
“This is a step towards unity after years of fragmented efforts,” Thegim said.
The Front also highlighted its commitment to addressing systemic issues such as corruption and inequality, which they believe have hindered the country’s progress.
The Unified Identity Front says it envisions a political system based on “10+1 genuine federalism” and aims to create a governance model that respects Nepal’s diverse identities while ensuring fairness and representation.
In its statement, the Front criticized the current political system, accusing it of deepening social inequalities and forcing many Nepali youths to migrate for opportunities abroad.
It called for a people-centered alternative political force to address these challenges.
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