Kathmandu, 16 Asar :
On the occasion of Parliament Day 2082, celebrated in remembrance of Nepal’s parliamentary history, top state officials have delivered strong messages emphasizing the need to enhance the effectiveness, accountability, transparency, and public responsiveness of the Parliament. The Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the National Assembly all echoed a common voice: urgent reforms in parliamentary practices are essential to strengthen democracy and make the Parliament truly people-centric.
Deputy Speaker Indira Rana Magar warned that a weak Parliament suppresses the voices of the people and stressed that empowering Parliament must be a national priority. “The debate over whether Parliament has been effective is real,” she said, calling for collective action to ensure the legislative body is accountable to the people and capable of defending democracy.
National Assembly Chairperson Narayan Prasad Dahal emphasized that Parliament should rise above the arithmetic of power and become a space that respects public sentiment. He highlighted the need to enhance lawmakers’ capacity, adopt modern technology, promote subject-specific research, and improve oversight of the executive. “Parliament Day should inspire us to turn the Parliament into a strong platform for raising the people’s voice,” he wrote in his message.
Speaker Devraj Ghimire underscored that Parliament must be a forum for dialogue, cooperation, and consensus. He argued that unity among diverse political perspectives is crucial on matters of national interest. “Parliament is not a battlefield for debates, but a venue for constructive dialogue,” he said, urging all political parties represented in Parliament to move forward in alignment with the expectations of the press, civil society, and the people.
National Assembly Vice Chairperson Bimala Ghimire emphasized the need to critically review parliamentary practices and called for a collective effort to restore the dignity of Parliament. “Only a strong Parliament can ensure effective implementation of the Constitution,” she stated, expressing concern over the gap between constitutional principles and public expectations.
Paying heartfelt tribute to the martyrs, the leaders remembered the contributions of those who sacrificed their lives during various democratic movements, including the people’s war and mass uprisings. Observed in honor of the first meeting of Nepal’s elected Parliament on 16 Asar, 2016 B.S., Parliament Day serves as a reminder of the values of federalism, democracy, the rule of law, and representative governance.
Parliament Day 2082 has compelled all stakeholders to reflect on Nepal’s democratic journey. The path forward demands not just statements, but visible reforms and responsible action to preserve the dignity of Parliament and fulfill the aspirations of the people.
