Prachanda Slams Government Policy Ritual

Kathmandu: CPN (Maoist Centre) Chairperson and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has slammed the government for turning the policy and program announcement into a mere formality.

Speaking in Parliament on the government’s annual policy, presented by President Ramchandra Paudel on Baisakh 19, Prachanda said the entire process has become ritualistic and hollow. “The government has made this important exercise ceremonial rather than meaningful,” he said.

He recalled that last year, efforts were made to break this cycle by allowing more democratic debate and inclusion of MPs’ suggestions. “I tried to end the tradition of ignoring MPs’ voices in this respected House. That’s why we issued an ordinance and released the policy three months in advance of the budget,” he added.

According to Prachanda, the intent was to allow enough time for lawmakers to give feedback and for the government to revise the document accordingly. “Had that system continued, the suggestions would have been reflected in the budget itself,” he said.

However, he accused the current government of scrapping that reform to maintain unchecked control. “They didn’t want to risk losing two-thirds dominance. That’s why they reversed last year’s provision,” he claimed. “This shows the authoritarian mindset of the government. They think having the numbers means they can do anything.”

Prachanda concluded by demanding that the policy be corrected and made inclusive and accountable. “Parliamentary discussions should not be symbolic. I urge the government to stop treating them as a formality.”