‘A horrible and remarkable year’

Kathmandu, April 13, 2016: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Tuesday described 2072 BS both as a horrible and remarkable year, reminding the countrymen of the tragedy and hardships Nepal had to endure and a new height Nepal gained after the constitution promulgation.

In his address to the nation on the eve of New Year 2073, PM Oli sought to highlight both the worst and best of times of 2072 BS. He spent a considerable amount of time to talk about the hardships from the earthquakes, border blockade and Madhes protests. Praising the public for their patience even during extreme circumstances, he argued that the country “has emerged stronger from the tribulations it endured”.

Oli claimed that his government improved Nepal’s international relations with the immediate neighbours by visiting the two countries within a short span of time.

“My visit was successful in changing Nepal’s position as a land-locked country to one that is ‘land-linked’ with neighbours and other countries,” Oli said. Stating that he came to power at a time when the country was passing through an unusual situation in the wake of a blockade and protests in the southern part of the country, Oli said things have but improved.

On Madhes issues, Oli said that the government is ready to address genuine demands raised by the Madhes-centric parties. “Why did they intensify the protests pushing the country to a crisis, despite my willingness to reach an accommodation on the outstanding issues of the constitution?” Oli wondered.

Oli had been blamed by Madhesi parties as well as the main opposition for taking a hardline approach towards the Madhesi demands. “A committee headed by a deputy prime minister has already been formed to resolve the remaining issues after holding meaningful dialogue. I urge [the agitating parties] to be part of the mechanism and engage in dialogue,” said Oli.

He also outlined his government’s priorities: implementation of new constitution, reconstruction of quake-damaged houses and infrastructure, ending energy crisis and bringing back democratic system on track by holding local, provincial and parliamentary elections.

Oli also sought to clarify his position on controversy surrounding the summoning of members of the National Human Rights Commission.

“Constitutional agencies are not controlled by the government. Nor do they report to it,” said Oli. “But I am also very clear that officials of constitutional bodies have the same responsibilities as the executive head of the government in upholding the dignity and prestige of the country.”