'Democracy has no alternative, but correction in political performance imperative'

Kathmandu, March 30: Leaders of different political parties have said democracy has no alternative, but correction in political behaviour is essential.     

During a programme in the federal capital, Chairperson of the Nepal Samajbadi Party (Naya Shakti) and former Prime Minister, Baburam Bhattarai, said history does not repeat in case of monarchy.     

He, however, admitted that people were despair and dissatisfied with present political leaders, warranting immediate correction. "People are disappointed to see leaders indulge in corruption and get picketed by cabals," Bhattarai observed, expressing sympathy to the citizen's worry.     

He argued that present democratic system must be strengthened. In his argument, constitution needs amendment on some provisions relating to governance and electoral system.     

On the occasion, Minister for Water Resources and Irrigation and Nepali Congress leader, Dipak Khadka, said free and fair journalism is imperative to give proper direction to society. He called one and all to be united against the ill efforts befell republic.     

Lawmaker Prabhu Sah questioned the effectiveness of parliament. The parliament is under control of political parties, he blamed, adding that people are desperately waiting for good governance and economic development.     

Leader of Janata Samajbadi Party, Rajendra Shresha, viewed a democratic system is yet to be mature. The federal democratic republic with proportional and inclusive system has no alternative at all, he asserted.     

The parliament and parliamentary committees should be able to make government accountable.     

NC lawmaker Ramhari Khatiwada mentioned rule of law, press freedom and human rights are fundamentals of a democracy. Media can play a tremendous role to nurture democracy and negate autocracy, he believed. Present constitution is the most inclusive, according to him.     

Chairperson of the Loktantratik Samajbadi Party, Mahanth Thakur, said it would be mere a daydream to reverse democratic system. If the former king Gyanendra Shah wants to hold power, he can opt for being a candidate in voting. Restoration of monarchy is impossible, he reminded, adding that sovereignty achieved by citizens can not be vested in an individual.     

However, amendment of constitution is required.     

CPN UML leader Karna Bahadur Thapa viewed the attempt to revert present system gained through people's struggle and sacrifice would be abortive.     

The leaders were speaking at a programme organized on the 27th anniversary of the Reporters' Club.(RSS)