By Shashi P.B.B. Malla
The country is at a crossroads. Ordinary people are feeling the economic, social and political crises. Above all, people are experiencing the financial pinch.
The mainstream media, whether print or TV, is broadly ignoring the dismal situation in the country. It seems that by and large we do not have an independent media, but one that is complexly subservient to the ruling political parties or the main opposition.
“We hang small thieves and reward as ministers to the big thieves.” Photo: Internet
Critical voices are few and far between.
Most commentators either find the present political system functioning fantastically or belittle those who find fault with it.
In the second category is the sarcastic opinion piece: “Illogical logics and raja-badies” (my Republica, Dec. 2), the best part of which is the not-so subtle pun of “raja-badies”.
The writer states: “The country is basically in the hands of plutocrats”, which is completely off the mark, considering that ‘plutocrat’ means magnate or millionaire. Rather the country is ruled by the various dons (or bosses) of the Mafia families (or so-called political parties).
The writer defends a system that is indefensible. His critique is neither fish nor fowl.
He condemns the movement(s) for reinstating constitutional monarchy and the Hindu State as the first steps in restoring genuine democracy ‘Prajatantra’ and doing away with ‘fake people’s democracy’ or ‘Loktantra’, but himself has no real answer for the country’s ills.
The ‘don of dons’ (boss of bosses) happens to be the Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. The next in line to be the ‘capo di capi’ is Nepali Congress Don, Sher Bahadur Deuba. Don K.P. Sharma Oli is just itching to be the ‘Big Boss’ and exploring ways and means to jump the queue.
Such ‘critical commentators’ are making fun of people like Durga Prasain, who pointed out the ills of the present political system and attempted to reform it. Unfortunately, he underestimated the crooks of the current political establishment.
Then there are others who continue to insist that the Constitution is alive and kicking: “Defending federal democracy” (The Annapurna Express, 4.Dec.). It’s like flogging a dead horse.
The writer has the audacity to claim: “From ensuring federalism to rule of law, to good governance and inclusivity, the latest constitution has everything progressive for the people.” The writer is either very naïve or living in a parallel universe, especially since he goes on to insist:
“Nepal’s constitution provides ample opportunities for the provincial and local governments to recognize and address the local concerns.”
The proof of the pudding is in the eating and most activists lament that devolution of power has not really taken place – even after 15 years of promulgation of the Constitution!
Then, there is the question of leadership. Forget Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, Narendra Modi, and Benjamin Netanyahu – each leading his country backward in different ways.
Contemporary Nepal also does not offer examples of masterful, long-tenured political leadership. It would be a complete mismatch to use the epithet ‘leader’ for the pack of crooked Dons at the helm of affairs.
The writer can be reached at: shashipbmalla@hotmail.com
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect People’s Review’s editorial stance.
Login to add a comment