PM-elect sets four priorities

When will the cabinet take shape?



I´ll take oath of office by 12 noon tomorrow (Monday), and a small cabinet will be announced after that. The cabinet will take full shape very soon; we do not intend to prolong the process of giving the cabinet a full shape. [break]



Has the power sharing arrangement with the United Democratic Madhesi Front been settled?



More or less it has been settled.



How many ministries will the Madhesi alliance get?



It is yet to be decided. But there should be no problem in settling that issue.



What will be the main priority of your government?



I have four priorities.



The first priority will be to complete the peace process as per the past agreements. Our party has already made a decision to complete the peace process within 45 days. My first effort will be garner support of all political parties to implement that decision.







Second priority will be to make a concerted effort to draft a forward-looking constitution through the Constituent Assembly.



People have suffered from poverty, unemployment and corruption. My third priority will be to address these issues.



Next, I will give priority to good governance as people have lost faith in government. I will also ensure transparency in the way the administrative activities are carried out.



Fourth, I will give priority to social and economic transformation. I will focus on building grounds for ending poverty and unemployment. People have high expectations but I urge people to understand that all this cannot be accomplished all at once.



With NC opposing the Maoist-led government, will it not be difficult to move ahead?



I am hopeful that I´ll get their support. We only followed a democratic process [to elect a new prime minister]. Contesting election does not mean there is disagreement. Though I have been elected through majority vote, I´ll try to convince all political parties to join my government.



What are your plans to complete the peace process?



I do not have any magic formula, but I do have the willpower to take the peace process forward. I will try to move ahead winning the confidence of other parties. For that, I will form a high-level political mechanism comprising top leaders from all political parties. This mechanism will settle the outstanding issues of the peace process and constitution writing.



What will you do to improve the ailing economy?



I will consult experts and move ahead as per their advice.

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