Happy anniversary!

Today marks the fifth anniversary of the birth of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal that, arguably, has been in existence ever since the nineteen-day people’s protests popularly known as Jana Andolan II or April Uprising. Designated as Loktantra Diwas in 2007, the day marks the end of that nineteen-day uprising nationwide that finally toppled the monarchy, compelling then king Gyanendra Shah to step down and thus officially turn the country over into the hands of the people. Later on May 28, 2007, the seven political parties formally declared Nepal a Federal Democratic Republic. This day commemorates the euphoria of the Nepali people reveling in that victory.



Five years down the line, the euphoria has slowly turned into despair, frustration and even rage. The people have felt profoundly betrayed by the political parties and their leaders. The perennial political stalemate has been an immense let-down and the people have begun to question if their dream of ‘New Nepal’ will ever materialize. The constant shortages of everyday commodities, price inflation and chronic struggle for power have both disappointed and demoralized them. The inability of the leaders to come to a consensus on the agenda of national importance and the prolonged ‘political transition’ have made the populace feel virtually hopeless.



That said, it would be unfair to categorize the uprising of 2006 as a futile exercise. The uprising has contributed to a number of substantial changes in Nepal’s political life. First and foremost, the uprising ended a decade-long insurgency, and the former rebels have joined mainstream politics. Also, the nation could hold elections to a Constituent Assembly within another year, introducing a proportional representation system that elected the most diverse group of people in the country’s history and taking the peace process a step further. Despite the absence of a full cabinet, the Jhalanath Khanal government is slowly restoring political stability and, hopefully, reviving hope among the people for a better future.



Another bit of good news, that come a day before the fifth anniversary, is UCPN (Maoist) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s decision to discard the party line of revolt and expedite constitution drafting and effectively conclude the peace process. Even though he does not deserve a pat on the back just yet, we would like to focus on the positive aspect of Dahal’s statement, which could have tremendous impact on the country’s future. As the largest party in the Constituently Assembly, the Maoists have an immense duty to aid the process of writing the constitution by the slated date and fulfill the promise of five years ago.



It is of utmost importance for the political parties to come to a national consensus and pave the way for the much talked-about New Nepal. We wish our political leader the best and also remind them of their duty towards the people. Happy anniversary!

Related story

Why are Nepalis happy?