Kathmandu, October 4
Former prime minister Baburam Bhattarai has suggested that Nepal’s political parties consider a directly elected executive president and a fully proportional electoral system as an alternative to ensure political stability.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the Nepali Congress’ 15th General Convention at Khulamanch in Kathmandu on Sunday, Bhattarai said political stability was necessary for faster economic development.
He said Nepal’s governments have generally remained in office for only around three years, creating challenges for political stability and long-term development.Bhattarai also urged the ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) government to complete its five-year term.
“Please sustain the current government. I wish you well and hope it lasts,” he said. “But given our political tendencies, I cannot say what will happen.”
He then suggested that political parties reach an agreement on a different system of government.
“Either build a consensus and move towards a directly elected executive president and a fully proportional legislature. Reform the federal structure accordingly as well,” Bhattarai said.
Bhattarai argued that changes to the political and electoral system could provide an alternative framework for achieving greater political stability and supporting economic development.
