Dear sisters and brothers,
On the occasion of remembering the joyous day seventy-five years ago when democracy first dawned in Nepal through the joint efforts of the people and the monarchy, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all Nepalis. We pay tribute to our forefathers, especially King Tribhuvan, whose generosity and vision helped establish democracy, and we offer our respects to him. We also honor the known and unknown martyrs who gave their lives for democracy, and all those who have actively worked for its advancement.
Upon returning to Kathmandu after spending several months in Jhapa, I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the indigenous citizens of the Valley and the broader public who welcomed me. The love and goodwill shown toward me in this difficult moment have touched my heart deeply and inspired a strong sense of duty.
Nepal today finds itself trapped in an abnormal turmoil. Every patriotic Nepali senses that the nation’s very identity and existence are at risk. Throughout history, movements and struggles have occurred in the name of change, but it is now time to reflect on what those changes have truly delivered for Nepal and its people.
Our true adversaries are poverty and instability, yet we have fostered a harmful culture in which one Nepali sees another as an enemy. This culture has brought the country to one of the most painful points in its history. In these trying times, we must halt politics of hatred and conflict, and promote a political culture grounded in goodwill and unity.
In a democracy, state institutions and processes must function according to constitutional principles. While periodic elections to select representatives are a natural part of a democratic system, the prevailing sentiment among the people is that elections should be held only after national issues are resolved. Holding elections without such consensus risks post-election conflict and unrest; only a coordinated and inclusive approach can ensure the right path forward.
In today’s unfortunate circumstances, where the tendency is to seek rights without acknowledging duties, it is not through selfish thinking-I will take my share first-but through a shared sense of responsibility-let us work together-that the country can find new momentum. In a democracy, the people themselves must be alert and proactive in serving society and the nation, rather than being bound by a coercive system that demands approval from others.
Only a system and structure aligned with the country’s geography and social character can deliver sustainable and positive outcomes. A democratic system that ensures the overall welfare of the people and enhances Nepal’s standing in the world is what suits our nation. From any system, we must retain what is good and discard what is harmful.
Many nations around the world advance democracy by prioritizing their country, their people, and their fundamental needs. Likewise, we must embrace democracy rooted in our ground realities, continually testing, refining, and adapting it. With Nepal’s unification, democratization, and modernization, it is essential to consider the changing needs and aspirations of the people, and to implement timely reforms that make daily life easier and more accessible for all citizens.
Democracy must be based on all kinds of ideas and all kinds of traditions. Socially sustainable and robust democracy grows from mutual respect and coordinated action. We must not become dependent on others to the point of losing our own initiative.
May Lord Pashupatinath bless the welfare of all.
Unofficial Translation: Source Anand Nepal
Comments
Post a Comment