KATHMANDU: CPN (Maoist Center) Chair and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has called for intensified socialist movements and stronger commitments against violence toward women.
Inaugurating the 7th National Conference of the All Nepal Women’s Association (Revolutionary) at Academy Hall, Kamaladi, Prachanda said he believed the conference would adopt a resolution against gender-based violence.
Highlighting the significant role of women in the Maoist people’s war, he stated that the current constitution, republican system, and 33 percent women’s representation would not have been possible without their participation. He recalled the courage of women in Kalikot and Rolpa at the beginning of the conflict, emphasizing that the war itself might not have been possible without their support.
Prachanda warned of conspiracies against the republican system and urged unity to defend the constitution and progressive achievements. He reiterated his long-standing demand for a directly elected executive head, stating that stability and good governance required such a system.
He further argued that the proportional electoral system could be made more direct to ensure fair representation of women.
Criticizing the current political leadership, Prachanda remarked, “The real power of today’s government does not lie with leaders but with brokers. Coalitions worth millions have been formed inside hotels and private residences, and the government is running according to their will.”
He added that his campaign for good governance during his tenure forced him out of government and stressed the need for public support, particularly from women, to fight corruption and the influence of middlemen.
Calling the next struggle a movement for scientific socialism, Prachanda urged unity among all honest and like-minded forces. He pledged his party’s full commitment to women’s rights and expressed hope that the upcoming convention would pave the way for broader unity under the banner of socialism.
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