Kathmandu, April 16
The United Democratic Madhesi Front and the Federal Alliance have announced protests to disrupt the May 14 elections.
Accusing the government of registering a fresh constitution amendment proposal against the spirit of past agreements, the UDMF and the FA have announced a series of protests, including torch rallies and an indefinite general shutdown.
UDMF and FA leaders reiterated that elections can only be held after amending the constitution to address the demands of the Madheshi, indigenous nationalities, the Tharus, Muslims, Dalits and the marginalised. “We have been forced to go for agitation in order to protect the achievements of the past including federalism, national identity, democracy, republic and proportional representation and inclusion,” said Upendra Yadav, coordinator of the alliance.
Yadav also said elections to the federal parliament and the provincial assembly should be held first, and local bodies should come under the ambit of the provincial government.
As part of the protests, the UDMF and the alliance will jointly organise processions and rallies and enforce a nationwide shutdown in the lead up to the local-level elections on May 14.
