KATHMANDU: The Nepali Communist Party has issued a joint appeal to voters as the election draws near, outlining six major agendas and pledging to transform people’s living conditions.
Party Coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Co-coordinator Madhav Kumar Nepal released the appeal on Thursday, placing national sovereignty, strengthening democracy, and socio-economic transformation at the center of their commitments.
Describing the March 5 election as a historic opportunity, the leaders said 22 communist and socialist forces had unified to form the party. Stating that they were the force that “changed the system,” the two leaders pledged that the next phase would focus on “changing the people’s condition.”
Emphasis on sovereignty and stability
The party expressed concern over what it described as increasing external interference and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding national independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.
It pledged to strengthen the federal democratic republican system with proportional and inclusive features, while moving toward what it termed a socialist-oriented democracy. The party also vowed to defeat activities aimed at destabilizing the established political system and ensure long-term political stability.
Constitution amendment and electoral reform
Calling the constitution drafted by the elected Constituent Assembly a document of people’s rights, the party stressed its protection while stating that necessary amendments could be made through constitutional processes.
The appeal also described the existing electoral system as costly and complex, proposing reforms to make it simpler, less expensive, and more conducive to forming stable governments.
Good governance and anti-corruption drive
The party pledged zero tolerance against corruption and emphasized transparency and good governance. It proposed forming a high-level commission to investigate the assets of public office holders and nationalize illegally acquired property.
It also committed to delivering public services at people’s doorsteps in line with the spirit of federalism and ensuring governance based on the principle of separation of powers.
Social justice and transformation
The party vowed to eliminate class-based, caste-based, gender, religious, and regional discrimination, and take effective measures against harmful practices such as untouchability, chhaupadi, and witchcraft accusations.
It reiterated its long-term goal of establishing “scientific socialism with Nepali characteristics,” ensuring access to education, healthcare, employment, food security, and social justice.
Production growth and self-reliant economy
Highlighting unemployment, trade deficit, foreign debt, and inflation as major economic challenges, the party proposed boosting production in agriculture, industry, energy, and tourism.
It pledged to reduce import dependency, build a self-reliant economy, implement a progressive tax system, and reform the financial sector. The leaders also stressed sustainable development through conservation of natural resources and effective disaster management.
Foreign policy and national interest
The party stated that it would conduct foreign relations based on equality, non-interference, and mutual benefit, prioritizing national interest.
It also pledged to initiate steps to scrap unequal treaties and reclaim encroached land.
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