Nepal established diplomatic relations with Malaysia in 1960. Malaysia, which has been Nepal’s one of the major trading partners, recognized Nepal as a source country for foreign workers in 2001. Khabarhub recently caught up Mr. Ahmad Phadil Ismail, Charge d’ affairs a.i., at the Malaysian Embassy in Nepal and talked on a range of issues, including Malaysian investment in Nepal. Excerpts:

It’s been almost 60 years of Nepal-Malaysia bilateral relations. How do you access the current state of affairs?
Relations between Nepal and Malaysia has always remained smooth. It seems that we are focusing on only one sector that is labor. It is high time that we expanded other areas as well. In fact, we have been trying to engage in other terms such as trade, investment, and tourism.
Unfortunately, at the moment the situation has been stagnant for the last three years. It’s been a challenge for us either to encourage the labor issue or run away from it. Apart from labor, we have one big investment in Nepal through the acquisition of NCell through Axiata Company, which is a telecommunications enterprise, which, however, got into complication in recent times.

How optimistic are you about resolving the confusion concerning Axiata?
Let’s hope that this issue will not jeopardize the investment. The recent involvement of investment with regards to Axiata and Ncell to pay some money is their responsibility. But having been a company from Malaysia, where we have Asian values, we normally follow the rules. But I will leave it Axiata to comment on its part.
I very much believe Axiata is still discussing and looking at the legal aspects. Let’s hope that the company and the government could work together to resolve the issue.

What other areas would Malaysia consider it worth to make investments in Nepal?
We pursued a few projects in the past such as the second international airport and fast track. We have a consortium of companies willing to develop the projects. Unfortunately, the discussions did not progress as expected. We have the expertise in terms of infrastructure development. We thought that it would have been a good opportunity for us to work and develop infrastructure here in Nepal.

Unfortunately, it did not go well since the government here did not exhibit the interest. Frankly speaking, we are also interested in hydropower, which, too, did not go well due to certain reasons. But we still look at Nepal as a potential market that will benefit both the sides.

Despite your interest in investment here, what is hindering the process?
Earlier, it was political instability. We had several rounds of discussions with the concerned ministers but the frequent change in the governments hindered the process. In fact, it was difficult for us to explain the same issue to different ministers. Another important issue is that Malaysia considered Nepal as a resource country for labor. This, as I said earlier, has been caught in a quagmire.

Talking about investment, what is your impression on the recently-concluded Nepal Investment Summit?
The Summit was impressive in terms of the setup. For us, however, it is a wait and see situation since it is difficult for us to lay out all projects available in Malaysia. Whether or not those projects are feasible here, the problem here is with the implementation part. Signing documents is one part, and its implementation is a different part.
I, however, hope that some projects can be implemented if Nepal moved forward with open-mindedness. We believe that when other countries have taken a leap forward in a short span of time, Nepal should not lag behind.

What hurdles do Malaysian investors face in Nepal?
So far as the information that we have received, getting approval for investment is very difficult. A few Malaysian companies, which came here for investment in hydropower, said they had to go several layers of formalities for getting approval for a project. Moreover, the policy is not very clear in terms of setting a business here.
Another hurdle is the port, which is too far.

There are other issues such as lack of proper infrastructure, lengthy procedures, among others. Based on my discussion regarding the fast track, I would say that the process was too lengthy. In mid-2017, we thought to construct the fast track through a Malaysian company having the expertise in developing highways and digging tunnels in Malaysia. We had business engagements with the local partners also. However, the authorities here took so much of time to decide on the tender. However, we are not complaining about the Nepali authorities.

What about tourism prospects?
Malaysia is trying to attract more tourists from Nepal. We are also working towards developing Malaysia as an education hub to attract students from Nepal, India and other countries. Our primary focus would, however, be India because of its huge population. Moreover, we receive a significant number of Indian tourists every year.

Last year only, Malaysia received one million plus Indian tourists. It is a matter of delight that we received around 50 thousand Nepali tourists last year. We definitely like to increase the number of Nepali tourists. However, both countries need to work hard to promote tourism in both the countries.

A substantial number of Nepali workers are currently in Malaysia. How do your government work to ensure their safety and security?
Yes, a lot of Nepali workers are working in Malaysia. We have also workers from Indonesia, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar. However, there are certain policies implemented by the government of Malaysia about rules and regulations that they (workers) need to follow. The government is serious towards the security and welfare of the workers. I do not rule out the fact that some workers are victimized by employers. We are serious that the employers do not exploit the workers, and are benefitted. Things will certainly improve.

There are other concerns such as the implementation of the one-stop service center. Could you clarify on this?
The one-stop visa application had come into effect from September 2016. This means that all necessary process, including the application, visa procedure, and other formalities should go through the center. The Malaysian Embassy, however, has the final authority for visa approval. That is the standard procedure for all the countries, including Nepal. It is not a strange procedure.

Is it that Malaysia will resume the hiring process of Nepali workers soon?
This is all about the labor issue again. After the singing of the MoU last year, we are ready to hire Nepali workers. There is no pending issue on our side. The Government of Nepal has to accelerate the process. We are ready to discuss the mechanism under the joint working group and resume the process.

Does it mean that hat the ball in Nepal’s court?
I wouldn’t say that. However, Nepal should first clear the confusion. The process should go through two approvals. Currently, around 7 thousand plus workers have completed the process. They are waiting for the second approval from the Ministry of Labor. We have been informed last week that they have been approved and can apply for a visa. Will issue the visa once we received the application from them.

Could you elucidate about the free visa and free ticket status?
Let me clarify you that since Nepal introduced the free visa and ticket policy, it is up to it how it would implement the policy. The government should monitor that the stakeholders followed the policy. We agreed on the policy thinking that the stakeholders, including the workers coming to Malaysia, would abide by the policy.

We have the mechanism to ensure its strict implementation such as the security screening is the first stage in the procedure. Failing in the first stage will be barred from the second screening. The same implies medical examination. We check all the system, which is interlinked with our immigration department.

The immigration department issues the approval letter once the name and the medical report are right. Similarly, another layer of screening will be carried out in the embassy.

Dr. Ram Saran Mahat, an influential leader of Nepali Congress, currently has a tight schedule — busy attending meetings and seminars besides visiting various districts to meet with district-level party leaders. Former Finance Minister Dr. Mahat talked to Khabarhub on contemporary issues, mainly on party politics. Excerpts:

Nepali Congress is reeling under severe internal rift. Party leaders are on the move as if the party’s general convention is approaching. What is the reality?

In fact, the party’s general convention had to be held within a year. However, the party president seems least bothered to convene it.  We can wait even for one year. The party statute has the provision to extend the convention by a year in case of any emergencies. However, the party leadership, mainly the party president, is looking for an excuse to extend it. Speculations are rife about the change of guard. That’s a different issue. But it is obvious that leaders, including me, to be on the move.

Party district presidents organized a meeting in Kathmandu recently. Party President was disenchanted. What is your opinion?

The meeting of the district presidents was, in fact, was an informal gathering.  And, I think, it is nothing to worry about. It’s obvious. They have been demanding implementation of the decisions endorsed by the Mahasamiti meeting. Internal democracy is obvious.

What is your stand? How do you plan to move ahead at this point of time?

See, I am not a self-centered person. I don’t believe in self-recommendation or self-praise. However, several of my friends have come to me, and suggested me to take the lead of the party because they say I have the experience, qualification and the ability to run the party. In fact, I have told them I am ready to shoulder the responsibility. And, I will be in the fray if the need arises.

NC has been alleged of being a voiceless and passive party and has failed to play the role of strong opposition. Is it that NC is losing its grounds?

In fact, allegations that the NC is losing its grip in the grass root level is baseless. There are instances of several cadres of Nepal Communist Party joining the Nepali Congress even now. In reality, the wrangling among the top leaders has upset the party cadres. This is the weakness on the part of the leadership. I agree, there are factions within the party. Party president should take the initiatives to narrow down the differences and to unite the party by rising above personal interest.

Nepali Congress, which faced a debacle in the parliamentary elections in its history, has been mired in factional politics. Over 50 district party presidents gathered in Kathmandu calling for change of guard in the party leadership. However, leaders loyal to President Sher Bahadur Deuba have been protesting the move, arguing that it will only fuel unhealthy competition thus weakening the party.

Khabarhub caught up Dr. Shekhar Koirala, influential leader of Nepali Congress, for his views on the differences lately seen in the party, imminent General Convention and latest political developments in the country. Excerpts:

The two-day meeting of Nepali Congress district presidents in Kathmandu has been widely speculated as a ploy to weaken party president. How far is it true?

The meeting among like-minded people cannot be taken as unusual. And, I believe, that such meetings should not be dragged into controversy. The concern is that intra-party democracy has to remain intact. There is no point going against such meetings.

You seem to be busy these days. Does this indicate that the party’s national convention is drawing closer?

True, the national convention is approaching. The party has not yet prepared for the same. Currently, I have been visiting the districts interacting with district-level leaders and party supporters. To be candid, I love to visit villages rather than district headquarters.

Dr. Shekhar Koirala at the party helm is what has been anticipated. Do you have any plans to lead the party?

In fact, there are some senior colleagues in the party. I am currently learning from them. Some of them are aspiring to take the lead. Let’s see how things turn up. I am also ready to take the lead if the situation demands. However, it’s too early to say right now. The government has failed to live up to the people’s expectations. The government is losing credibility. The opposition is not gaining popularity, either.

The image of an institute depends upon the people who lead it. If those responsible do not work efficiently, facilities or equipment will be meaningless, no matter how sophisticated they are. The existing leadership is not dependable. There might be various reasons. Taking the government’s helm for a long time without fulfilling people’s expectations could be one of them.

Do you think it is the lack of dynamic and cultured leadership that ultimately led to the downfall of the Nepali Congress?

Public say (that) we should have preserved the monarchy. But I don’t think so. Things went worse in the long run due to our own weaknesses. The reinstatement of the monarchy depends on the demand of the people. Regarding federalism, Nepali Congress was in the dark about the condition of local units. We discussed it with the district presidents. The situation was turning unfavorable for the party. We failed to sense future consequences.

With whom did you align with – Rastriya Janata Party Nepal (RJPN), Federal Socialist Forum Nepal (FSFN) during the elections?

President should understand it. We sacrificed seat for Kamal Thapa while Thapa did not support Sitaula. It is unfair. Similarly, at times, we supported then Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Center) in favor of Renu Dahal. We did not demonstrate any seriousness over any constitutional issues when it came to amendment. It was great a mistake. Interestingly, we never asked why we voted in favor of Renu Dahal. NC will never win any seats in Chitwan in the days ahead. Similarly, it remains unanswered why NC scarified seats for Upendra Yadav and Mahantha Thakur among others, and for what reasons. Which party sacrificed a seat for Shekhar Koirala? The party president should understand this. Further, in the political proposal of the Mahasamiti meeting, ‘parliament reinstatement’ should have been codified. This is a history. International community is watching this.

What is the economic and religious vision of Nepali Congress?

People elected Nepal Communist Party. There is a two-thirds government in the country. However, the country still seems to be mired in political instability and uncertainty. Why is it so? Geo-politically, Nepal lies between two big powers – China and India. Besides, America and Europe have influence in Nepal. They have their own particular interest. A big problem looms large before Nepal. China is creating its influence with Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on one hand while America is spreading its influence with Indo-Pacific strategy on the other. In this context, Nepal has to move ahead by maintaining balanced ties with the international community. Currently, we are paying our attention to only two countries – India and China. We should not be oblivious that there are other neighbors, too. Besides, we should take donor countries into account.

Economist and former Member of the National Planning Commission, and former Chief Economic Adviser to the Ministry of Finance, Prof. Dr. Govind Nepal talks about the ongoing Nepal Investment Summit 2019. Khabarhub caught up Prof. Nepal for his views. Excerpts:

How do you assess the first day of the Nepal Investment Summit-2019?

Despite some discontentment from some quarters that this summit lacked sufficient preparation, and that the environment to host was not matured enough, the first day of the summit went well considering the significant number of enthusiastic participants.

Nonetheless, success is not judged by the mere number of participants but mainly on the quality of the pledging. So, we are yet to see the size of the pledging to actually determine the success of the summit.

What differences did you find between the 2017 and this summit?

The government has enacted two acts crucial for foreign investment. The government has come up with 77 projects with serious homework. They all underwent pre-feasibility studies and contain details on the technical and financial aspects of the projects. Unlike in the past, the investor should be eligible to pledge for a project.

Media have been critical to this summit saying that the country lacks an investment-friendly environment.  What do you have to say?

Of course, it would have been better if more acts towards easing FDI were enacted, and if the government had more time to prepare for this summit. Yet, the summit was the necessity of the hour. The investment summit came up because of our need rather than the investors’ interests.

Government’s main agenda is economy and the government is preparing for the 15th development plan which will be implemented from 16 July this year. To achieve prosperity, the government has to invest a huge amount in the sector of infrastructure and productive sectors. But we have limited financial resources as compared to the required investment. Thus, we have to look at FDI as an only alternative source for carrying out big projects.

Isn’t the ‘Biplav’ outfit a serious security threat given its destructive activities already?

The issue of security regarding the ‘Biplav’ outfit that media has been raising is in fact, a political issue. As a matter of fact, the ‘Biplav’ issue may not be as big as hyped by the media.

The government is capable enough to tackle this problem through a political approach since it has already had past experience in resolving such an issue.

This summit brings together over 500 participants. The investors are well informed of the investment climate in the country. Investors take some predictable risks. They are here following a full assessment of the investment climate. A positive sign that this summit has attracted a significant number of investors.

Nepal’s immediate neighbor, India also offers a tremendous possibility for investors as a developing country. Why should one invest in Nepal? 

Investors come from different perspectives. The notion of Nepal being a landlocked country is waning through increasing connectivity and trade facilitation process in the sub-region. For example, if they want to invest in hydro, there will be an agreement between the importing country and the investors. Until that is done they won’t invest. Exporting energy to India and Bangladesh is now much easier than before.

If they want to invest in a road project, they need not export anything at all. They just collect toll tax and reap profits. In agriculture, they may invest in high-value crops export it in the international market. Thus, we have different products.

Besides, we should not forget our domestic market when we talk of FDI. A glowing example is that of Ncell.

There are reports that Nepal has high labor wage among some South Asian countries and thus the cost of production will be higher. Can Nepal still attract FDI if that is true?

I think those are average figures. Besides, it is also reported that Nepalese labors are less productive. All these are true because Nepalese labors are engaged in subsistence sectors.

But if Nepalese laborers have the opportunities to be employed in mass production involving high-tech equipment, that would give a reverse consequence. That is where the FDI comes in.

One of the slogans of the 15th plan of Nepal would be ‘generating prosperity, sharing prosperity, and sustaining prosperity’, which means we should not seek prosperity at the cost of the labor’s exploitation. Prosperity should be shared among the contributors fairly.

Productivity is low in Nepal because Nepalese industries do not have modern technology. There is no mass production. If there is large scale production, the scale of the economy will be higher, productivity increases and the cost of production will be low.

Nepali Congress has a long history as a democratic party. Despite its ‘glamorous’ history, it now looks feeble on the political front. The party appears helpless following the demise of Girija Prasad Koirala. Khabarhub’s Jibaram Bhandari and Ishwar Dev Khanal talked with NC leader and Former Deputy Prime Minister Sujata Koirala on contemporary politics. Excerpts:

Nepali Congress seems ineffective and powerless against the Communist. What’s your take on this?

There are many reasons for that. The main cause for it is the lack of a capable leadership to drive the party. Strong leadership should direct and operate the party. However, this is not happening. Frankly speaking, there is no leadership in the party.

It is sad to accept that that factionalism has gripped the party up to the grass-roots level. How can you expect a strong party in such circumstances? We need to end factionalism and I do not think the old leadership is capable of that. Thus, new leadership needs to come to the fore.

Moreover, the Nepali Congress used to carry a strong stance on nationalism, which had built faith in the people towards the party. The faith is diminishing with each passing day. The party has failed to take forward the three doctrines set by BP Koirala- nationalism, democracy and socialism. Thus, the party is in a critical juncture.

There are factions and sub-factions within the party. Current President Sher Bahadur Deuba is looking for another stint. There is the least possibility of the three members of Koirala family – Shekhar, Shanshak and you – coming together. Repetition of the leadership is likely. In such a context, how can the party get a capable leadership that can steer the party at this critical juncture?

It will be a misfortune for Nepali Congress if the same leadership returns to the helm. A timely change in the party is mandatory. If you closely observe the leadership, the same leadership is ruling the party for more than 30 years. Old faces have repeated. Party only becomes vibrant with timely changes. However, this is not happening. It is a high time for youths to steer the party out of crises.

It is sad to accept that that factionalism has gripped the party up to the grass-roots level. How can you expect a strong party in such circumstances? We need to end factionalism and I do not think the old leadership is capable of that. Thus, new leadership needs to come to the fore.

Can we assume that the three members of the Koirala family will stand together?

I am ready for that, as I do not have any greed for the post. I am ready for sacrifice and I do believe they will follow suit.

What will be the future of Nepali Congress if Sher Bahadur Deuba gets another inning as a President?

We face stern competition from Communist. If he gets another term in office, he should give up slowness and laziness. But, I don’t see this happening. His time is already up and he should leave his position for a new face.

Talking about religion, the party’s statute mentions Sanatan-Dharma (The Eternal Religion). One star out of four in our party’s flag signifies religious freedom. We should now focus on development rather than discussing religion as the Constitution has already barred forceful religious conversion. So, putting forth demands of reinstating Nepal as a Hindu State through referendum holds no meaning.

He has already failed and thus should clear ways for new leadership and focus on making the party stronger. The party faced a humiliating defeat in elections and he should take responsibility for that. More or less, we all are also responsible. Nonetheless, the main responsibility is on his shoulders. To revive the party, new faces should come to fore.

Can we say that Nepali Congress faced humiliating defeat as it left three doctrines set by its founding leader BP Koirala – nationalism, democracy and socialism and established secularism, federalism, and republicanism through a tie with Communist?

I do not think so. You cannot compare the 40 years old context with the present time. Now, globalization has shaped everything. Peoples Movement II would not have succeeded if Nepali Congress was a lone agitator. Co-work with Communist was the need of the hour. We should co-work with other forces if it benefits the country. The party is in the current situation due to itself. It is because of poor leadership. We should not pass the blame to others.

Talking about religion, the party’s statute mentions Sanatan-Dharma (The Eternal Religion). One star out of four in our party’s flag signifies religious freedom. We should now focus on development rather than discussing religion as the Constitution has already barred forceful religious conversion. So, putting forth demands of reinstating Nepal as a Hindu State through referendum holds no meaning. A referendum will invite bloodshed and grave situation in the country. Can a small country like Nepal withstand referendum? Impossible!

It is said that external forces play an instructive role in Nepal’s politics and Nepali leaders are forced to oblige owing to different reasons. Did you go through such a situation while you were in the office as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs?

I did not go through such situations, as I am an independent person. I did what I thought was right. I might have done something unknowingly but I always thought for the benefit of the country. When I was in office, the decade long conflict had recently ended and the situation was very fragile. Nobody neither pressurized nor instructed me.

Problems, if any, should be solved through convincing power. I have witnessed a lack of confidence and expression in Nepali leaders before foreigners. They severely lack convincing power too.

A small group criticizes Girija Prasad Koirala blaming that he betrayed the King politically by asking him to reestablish the dissolved parliament and opting for a republic. What is the reality? What is the cause for the country entering the republic?

Nepal entered republicanism due to the King. People have strong commitments for multi-party democracy and it cannot be wiped out from their brains. However, the King opted to curtail democracy. What happened at that time was right.

Nepal has gone through a different system and now need to be stable. Nepali Congress can play a pivotal role in that. Nepali Congress will revive and lead the country again.

There are accusations that the current government is working haphazardly as Nepali Congress has failed to come up with a strong Opposition. In such a situation, how can you be sure that Nepali Congress will revive and lead the country again?

Nepali Congress will revive once right persons reach in the leadership as the party has a long history and has been making its place in people’s heart since years. There are strong chances that the party will revive again. Party is full of power-mongers, thus Nepali Congress is going through such a situation.

It is said that foreign powers are flexing their muscles to bring instability in Province-2? What is your take on that?

I cannot point out reasons for bringing instability. But, I do believe Tarai will not split from Nepal. My heart says that Tarai people will stop the split. I completely disagree that foreign powers wish for the split.

Views recently expressed by General Secretary of Nepali Congress (NC) party, Shashanka Koirala on the issue of secularism, republic, and federalism have created ripples in the national political arena. Koirala’s statement raises several questions regarding the future political course in Nepal. Khabarhub talked to Deep Kumar Upadhyay, NC leader, former minister and former Nepali ambassador to India, for his views. Excerpts:

General Secretary of NC, Shashank Koirala stressed on holding a referendum on the issues of secularism, federalism, and republic, recently. How do you take this issue?

The constitution was promulgated in haste. Making mistakes is common but we should express readiness to rectify them. People are gradually realizing that the term ‘secularism’ was picked in a haste to be incorporated in the constitution.

Not only NC leader but also the leaders of the Nepal Communist Party (NCP) are now saying that the term was not chosen cautiously. The term in itself is negative.

Besides, there is a large number of people in favor of a Hindu State. Shashank Koirala raised the issue of a referendum against the party policy as it embodies the feelings of a large section of Nepali people. However, a change does not occur in a flash. It has to undergo a long process. The issue should be raised in the Mahasamiti meeting and also at the general convention of the party before it decides about the referendum.

Don’t you think that Koirala raised this issue as a political stunt to turn the tables in his favor for the upcoming general election?

He courted a lot of controversies as he failed to make an impression within the party even after becoming its general secretary. His latest views on secularism can be taken as an agenda to show his presence for the upcoming general convention.

NC hardly raises pressing issues of the people either in the street or in the parliament. How do you see the party’s future?

Nepali Congress is being led by ideals postulated by BP Koirala. It is the only party in Nepal that the international community trusts. However, there are scores of challenges facing the party. There are a lot of works to be done before the general convention. A broader spectrum should be envisaged to accommodate diverse views of the NC leaders in the general convention. The next leadership will address these issues.

Communists have greater influence in Nepali politics while the international community is playing an active role in Nepal. What could be the strategy of NC in the given context?

Nepal has no fixed foreign policies. It needs to have fixed and balanced foreign policies. The government should hold talks with concerned parties before taking a stand on any foreign issues.

For example, the government did not consult NC when it banned the ‘Biplav’ outfit and when it signed the agreement with the Alliance for Independence for Madhesh led by a secessionist leader, CK Raut.

NC should put its stand clearly before the government on such controversial issues. However, we should not make tall promises and should only speak of things that can be delivered.

Nepal Communist Party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal is now in America. International community takes him as a human rights violator. Colonel Lama was arrested in Britain on the charge of violating human rights. What do you say to this?

I don’t see any problem with Prachanda visiting the United States of America. The powerful countries have their own strategies regarding human rights issues which may differ from those of developing countries.

The American ambassador has already issued an advisory regarding Prachanda’s visit to America. However, it is would be problematic to embark on a visit to Europe unless they grant permission to those once accused of human rights violations and war crimes.

Do you mean that the entire state mechanism is not credible in the eyes of the international community?

Despite the good impression created by Nepal Army in its world peacekeeping missions, at times, it seems to be at the disposal of the prime minister and the president. Nepal Police is infiltrated by politics and it, thus, cannot function independently.

Lack of unity and collective decision among political parties of the country on the issue of national interest will weaken the credibility of the state mechanism.

Several ups and downs have come and gone by in the political spectrum of Nepal over the last few decades. Currently, the Nepal Communist Party (CPN) is leading the current government. People are uncertain about the future political course and the fate of the incumbent government. Will it address the aspirations of the Nepali people, while maintaining ties with the international community? Recently, Khabarhub talked to Mohan Bikram Singh, general secretary of Communist Party of Nepal (Mashal), for his views. Excerpts:

Currently, Nepal has a communist government. You witnessed governments led by various political parties including Nepali Congress and Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) in the past. How do you see its future political course as an ardent pillar of the communist movement?

The ruling Nepal Communist Party has already deviated from the core communist norms and values. If someone believes that the current government is a communist government, or being run under communist ideals, he/she is wrong. Hence, it would be wrong to judge its success and failures under the parameters of the communist ideology.

The role and the working style of the NCP are not in favor of development, republic, prosperity, national independence, and democracy. If this continues, the country will take a regressive course.

What do you mean by regression? Is it that the monarchy will make a comeback?

We cannot absolutely negate the possibility of the monarchy’s revival. RPP is bent on reinstating the Hindu state. It has been launching several political activities to this end. Similarly, there is a big section of political leaders within the main opposition Nepali Congress advocating for the reinstatement of Hindu State. Indian ruling party BJP is also exerting pressure on the reinstatement of the Hindu State in Nepal. Independence Mahesh Alliance led by CK Raut, which has recently agreed to join mainstream politics, has formed Janamat Party with an objective of holding a referendum to fulfill its long-cherished agenda. By and large, there are still possibilities that the political course is likely to take regressive direction.

You said Prime Minister KP Oli-led government failed to play a constructive role. Do you attribute it to Oli’s ill intention or sheer incompetence?

Even though the intention is good, the current government is facing attacks from all sides. The international community, including the southern neighbor, does not like the policy of the Oli-led government. That is why there is a massive decrease in foreign direct investment (FDI) since Oli assumed power. As a result, the upcoming investment summit in Kathmandu is not likely to be successful.

The government has to tackle the existing grip of international companies, corrupt bureaucracy, mafias, and other regressive forces to achieve its set goals. Integrity and high level of will power are necessary to deal with such multifaceted attacks coming from all directions. But, I do not see such qualities in the government, despite having good intention.

How do you assess the Nepal Communist Party led by Netra Bikram Chand (Biplav), its latest activities, and Mohan Baidya’s faction?

Nepal Communist Party led by Netra Bikram Chand is the remainder of the Maoist party that waged a decade-long insurgency. It is an extremist party for which we have no support. It is trying to revive violence creating terror in the society, which is absolutely wrong.

As far as Mohan Bidya’s party is concerned, it is also the remains of the then Maoist party. Though it is not currently launching terrorist activities, its party-line is wrong.  We do not support it.

How’s your take on the government’s ban on Biplav outfit?

This is wrong. The constitution does not allow the government to put a ban on any political parties. Law and order should be maintained. There are various ways to deal with the Biplav issue. It can be resolved through dialogue.

Dr. Shekhar Koirala is a central member of the opposition party, Nepali Congress (NC). In his recent conversation with Khabarhub, Koirala expressed his views on the latest political development in the country ranging from the deal between CK Raut and government to the ban imposed by the government on the activities of Netra Bikram Chand aka ‘Biplav’-led Nepal Communist Party (NCP). Excerpts:

How do you view the latest government’s ban on the activities of Biplav led NCP activities?

The government’s action of imposing a ban on the activities of a political party is undemocratic and thus wrong. You are letting a secessionist lose and banning a political party that demands a change in the political system. This cannot be thought of in a democracy and is meaningless. This issue has to be resolved through a dialogue.

Don’t you think the government move is against the destructive activities of Biplav led party such as: Ncell office bombing and the bombing at the house of a Foreign Employment Professional Entrepreneur?

I don’t believe on terrorist activities. But we have a proof that such issues can be resolved through talks. Late Girija Babu had appointed me to talk with the insurgent Maoist party. We held a series of talks and ultimately Prachanda and his party entered the main stream politics. Minister for Home Affairs Ram Bahadur Thapa and ‘Biplav’ were once the members of the same party. Now Ram Bahadaur Thapa talks of destroying ‘Biplav’ whereas the government held talks with one who had been claiming for the secession of the country. Isn’t this ridiculous?

Was there a problem in the 12-point agreement reached between the then Maoist insurgents and the seven parties in 2005? It looks as if the insurgency had not been completely resolved.

The 2005 peace deal was the need of the time. The insurgency had claimed many innocent lives; the lives of security personnel as well as the militants and that of the NC as well as other party cadres.

Perhaps we could have forged a better deal. We could have completely settled the issue. Our political leadership always called it a domestic issue. But it has become an international issue now. It won’t be sorted out easily as claimed by Prachanda or Baburam. We neither followed the Supreme Court’s decision nor do we heed the international community. I don’t know what our leaders, Sher Bahadur and Prachanda are afraid of. You can’t think of a clean ambiance by hiding dust inside the carpet.

What is your take on the controversy regarding the 11-point deal with CK Raut and the government?

NC in the beginning welcomed the deal but later it made a correction. The 11-point agreement itself mentions of the term that refers to referendum.

My reading of the incident is that Raut was released in an understanding between the government and the Supreme Court. This is a grave issue. The constitution clearly says that one cannot raise the issues against the national flag and an independent state within the national territory. You could see CK Raut in Janakpur amid the clamor of Madhesh as a separate state with his party cadres waving flags for an independent Madhesh while the government is a mute spectator to this all. I have a great reservation to the government’s action regarding the deal.

Hemanta Malla, former Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) holds expertise in strategic planning, criminal investigation, security, narcotics and in building partnership and governance, among others. Khabarhub caught up with Malla. Some excerpts.

A controversy on the wording of the 11 point agreement reached between CK Raut and the government is doing round? What is your take on this?

I have heard from some influential leaders that the government had prepared and brought forth CK Raut in order to confuse the Terai based political parties and to diffuse their movement. In the current situation, there are no threats due to CK Raut.

However, as for the peace and order situation in the society, crime rate is growing at an alarming rate. Crime rate in the fiscal year 2015/16 was 2.15 whereas it increased to 25 percent in the fiscal year 2016/17. Crime rate in the past four months remains at 34 percent and is expected to rise. Most of the crimes are targeted to women and children while others are related to public offense cases.

The problem is with the weak intelligence system of Nepal Police. The government is talking of confronting the Netra Bikram Chand led Nepal Communist Party (NCP). This is happening at a time when the country is still under transitional phase after emerging from a violent insurgency. People are about to get settled at villages. But the latest situation has raised doubts and fear among these people who are about to start a new life.

Nepal has its own security mechanism and the intelligence system? What ails them from functioning smoothly?

Nepal police in the past was known for its strength in intelligence strategy and practices. However, in the later years there has been interventions in the functioning of police. For example, action is taken against those who are involved in the investigation of a case, like their DNA is examined. This has dampened the spirit of the police personnel.

How do you find the confidence level of our security mechanism?

I find that the confidence level of police force has lowered due to various reasons. One is because of the charges against the investigating officers be that in the Gold case or other. Decrease in their confidence level is also contributed by the way various acts and bills are formulated or drafted. Bills or acts related to police force should be prepared or promulgated upon consultation with them. Similarly, lack of transparency concerning promotion or transfer of police personnel has also lowered their spirit.

How far is the federal set up of the country likely to affect police administration?

Police administration and management should be handled by the federal government. If provinces start recruiting police personnel enacting their own laws, that would impact on the uniformity and functioning of the police system.

Upon the end of (Maoist) insurgency the country got its constitution promulgated by the constituent assembly. It is now led by a majority government. Will peace and security prevail from now on as expected by the people?

For peace and security to prevail, security bodies need to be clear on their strategy. However, at present, security mechanism lacks a clear strategy which leads to a confounding state. Confusion within the leadership heading the security system affects the functioning of the entire system.

Security is a matter of perception. Country’s security system has not derailed as of yet. However, if the confusion persist, that can invite problems in the future due to weakened security system. Security agencies should remain intact from political interventions.

At a time when speculations are rife about the change of government leadership, Khabarhub’s Editor-in-Chief Jibaram Bhandari and Editor Ishwar Dev Khanal caught up Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav to get his opinion on the government’s performance, among other burning issues. Excerpts:

Despite the government’s assurances, people have not been able to feel and experience the change. How do you analyze the current situation?

I won’t deny the fact that people had high expectations from this government. What should also not be forgotten is that the three-tier governments have started to function. This means the constitution has been implemented. People still expect changes, both in the constitution as well as in their day-to-day lives. Besides, political stability, people want to see the economic transformation. Therefore, the government’s major tasks should be to creating an investment-friendly environment, minimizing corruption, ending sluggish bureaucratic attitude, ensuring good governance, maintaining law and order, among others.

Is the government working towards that end?

To be precise, people are yet to feel that sense of improvement. However, I want to reiterate that the government must focus on people’s aspirations. However, the working style is still based on traditional, unitary and centralized mentality. It will take some time to get accustomed to the new system.

Why, despite having a two-thirds majority, is the government not able to deliver?

Most importantly, it is the old mindset, behavior and the working attitude of the leadership and bureaucracy. Unless and until you do not change your mentality, you cannot deliver. Unfortunately, the government has not been able to deliver much.

Is it that you, as a Deputy Prime Minister, too, are not satisfied with the government’s performance?

It’s not about being satisfied or not. In totality, the government has not been able to perform as per the people’s expectations.

The Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal has pulled out its support to the government. Will your party follow-suit?

The case surrounding the Kailali incident and Resham Chaudhary’s involvement was basically a political issue, not legal. It would have been better had the government taken a political decision to settle the issue. Trying to settle political issues through non-political means will invite unfortunate circumstances. This will only flare up the problem.

There are speculations that your party Sanghiya Samajbadi Forum Nepal will pull out of the government. How far is it true?

In fact, we had earlier agreed to make amendments in the constitution, which was promulgated without thorough discussions in the Constituent Assembly. There are anomalies in the constitution, which need to be corrected. Secondly, addressing the national issues, and economic prosperity and corruption control are other priorities. Now that as soon as the party reaches to the conclusion that the government will not address these issues, there will be no looking back. We will be bound to create our own path.

It’s been one year that you have been in the government. For how long will your party will be a part of the government?

It’s not a matter of sticking. The issue is that we are waiting for the situation to be matured.

You joined the government with the assurance of constitutional amendments. There have been speculations that the leadership in the government will change. How far is it true? 

As I said earlier, this is the effect of the traditional mentality. It will take some time to be accustomed to the newly established agendas and to translate them into action. Regarding the change of leadership in the government, it should be based on principles, policies, and programs. Merely change of the prime minister will be meaningless since most of the senior leaders have already been tested.