Quest For Statesmanship  

Ratan Bhandari

Winston Churchill’s insightful words, “The difference between a politician and a statesman is that a politician thinks about the next elections, while the statesman thinks about the next generation,” resonate profoundly in the current political tableau of Nepal. In the midst of CPN-UML chair KP Sharma Oli’s mid-hill-centric campaign, the echo of populist slogans from new political entrants, and the controversial statements of Balendra Sah, mayor of Kathmandu metropolitan city, the nation grapples with the challenge of deciphering political maneuvering and genuine statesmanship.

The Mid-Hill Highway becomes a metaphor for the choices facing Nepal. Statesmanship, as defined by Churchill, demands a focus on the next generation’s welfare, transcending the lure of immediate electoral victories. It is crucial for discerning citizens to look beyond the catchy slogans and examine the track record and policy proposals of these emerging leaders. By analysing their past actions and evaluating their plans for sustainable development, citizens can determine if these leaders possess the vision and dedication needed to effectively tackle Nepal's long-term challenges. 

Sah's bold assertion challenges the traditional notion of political parties as essential for progress, forcing the electorate to critically evaluate their role in the country's development. This controversial stance also raises questions about Sah's motives and whether he truly believes in dismantling the existing political system or is merely attempting to capitalise on growing disillusionment with established parties. However, it is crucial to recognise the possibility that Sah’s proclamation might be a political tactic, a strategy to gain support, rather than a genuine belief in the dissolution of all political parties for national development. 

It is essential for the electorate to evaluate whether the Rastriya Swatantra Party's reliance on external economic doctrines aligns with the unique needs and aspirations of the nation. Critics argue that the Nepali Congress's emphasis on electoral gains may hinder their ability to address pressing issues and implement sustainable policies that promote long-term national development. In recent times, the political landscape of Nepal has been marked by shifting alliances, power struggles, and a focus on short-term gains. Politicians, driven by the need to secure votes, often find themselves entangled in the intricacies of immediate political manoeuvres. 

However, the question that raises is whether these actions contribute to the sustainable growth and prosperity of the country. A statesman, in contrast, envisions a future where the decisions made today resonate positively for generations to come. This perspective encourages leaders to adopt policies that transcend electoral cycles and address the root causes of societal challenges. It involves a commitment to building institutions, fostering unity, and prioritising the welfare of citizens over political expediency.

A statesman, cognizant of the delicate balance required for national progress, would prioritise economic stability, social cohesion, and environmental sustainability. Such leadership goes beyond the lure of short-term popularity and focuses on the enduring impact of policies on the lives of ordinary citizens. As the country witnesses countrywide rallies led by Oli and the rise of new politicians wielding populist slogans, the dichotomy between mere politics and statesmanship becomes evident. 

As Nepal navigates its political journey, the wisdom encapsulated in Churchill’s words offers a guiding light. It beckons leaders to rise above mere politicking and embrace the mantle of statesmanship, thereby ensuring a future where the prosperity of the nation takes precedence over the allure of short-term victories. The choice between being a politician and a statesman ultimately shapes the destiny of a nation, and the people of Nepal stand poised to demand leadership that thinks not only about the next elections but, more importantly, about the next generation.