KATHMANDU: Speaker of the House of Representatives Devraj Ghimire has warned that the practice of expressing dissent and walking out immediately after parliamentary sessions begin could have long-term negative consequences for Nepal’s democratic system and parliamentary practice.
He made the remarks during Friday’s House meeting, after lawmakers from the opposition Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) disrupted proceedings at the very start of the session.
“This tendency of staging protests and walking out as soon as the meeting begins can prove harmful to institutional democracy and parliamentary practice in the long run,” Speaker Ghimire said. “We must remain mindful of the message we are sending to the future. Parliament is not only a platform to express disagreement; it is also a forum to voice national consensus.”
Stating that the government has moved forward with the process of passing federalism-related bills crucial to strengthening the federal democratic republic, Ghimire stressed the need for all lawmakers to engage in serious and constructive debate.
“Just as in committees, the laws now before the House require discussion by all honorable members,” he said. “Today, the Right Honorable Prime Minister has scheduled time to address the session. I urge all lawmakers to take part in the meeting.”
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