Societal set-up to be hotly debated in UML conclave
Some UML leaders believe the society has entered a capitalistic era while others say it is still in “neo-feudal” and “neo-colonial” phase.
Some leaders including former Finance Minister Surendra Pandey, Ghana-shyam Bhusal and Rabindra Adhikari believe the society is in a capitalist phase while another faction of leaders under Shankar Pokharel believe Nepali society has semi-feudal and semi-colonial elements.
In his recent article in Nawayug, the party mouthpiece, Pokharel says that the party is yet to accomplish revolution as prescribed by its guiding principles, People’s Multi-party Democracy (PMPD).
Additionally, to back his argument that Nepal suffers from neo-colonialism, Pokharel says that India, after its independence, forced Rana Prime Minister Mohan Shumsher to sign a treaty in 1950. “The treaty questioned Nepal’s independence in the form of neo-colonialism.”
Bhusal’s team counters views that the Nepali society is in the neo-feudal and neo-colonial phase.
“People’s Movement II ended all forms of feudal forces including monarchy so there is no trace of feudalism while we have always been a sovereign and independent nation,” argues Bhusal.
Both the factions have continued their orientation of the party rank and file. Bhusal and his group have initiated dialogue among leaders and cadres to get their political line endorsed. On Saturday, they organised an orientation programme in the Capital bringing youths, students and cadres from the party.
“People suffer in a capitalist society when a capitalist comprador holds over 90 percent of banks and state resources. So we need production-based capitalism to lead people towards socialism,” said Bhusal.
This issue has been prioritised as a major discussion topic in party forums. The political report drafting committee headed by UML Chairman Jhala Nath Khanal has listed it for discussion.
“We have incorporated this as a major discussion topic after conflicting views appeared in the party rank and file although discussions continue in the committee as to how to define the issue in the political report,” said Bhim Rawal, a member of the report drafting committee.
Anti-absenteeism measures on anvil
KATHMANDU: The newly-drafted Parliamentary Party statute of the CPN- UML bars its lawmakers from remaining absent from the House without prior consent from the PP leader.
The clause to seek consent from the PP leader and chief whip was introduced following complaints that the House business was affected after lawmakers absented without notice.
A seven-member team headed by Bhim Rawal drafted the statute which will be endorsed by a PP meeting on Sunday.
The rules provision PP leader’s election from the Parliamentary Party in case the party fails to produce a unanimous candidate, and disciplinary action against lawmakers breaching set standards.
Earlier, there was no clarity whether the central committee or the parliamentary party elects the PP leader.
