Democracy entertains questions, leaders' accountability must: Minister Lekhak

Kathmandu, March 30: Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has said questions could be raised towards people's representatives and government in a democratic system and leaders must be accountable.     

He urged one and all to think whether former king Gyanendra Shah could be questioned or not at a time when demonstration is taking place in favour of monarchy.     

At a programme organized here on the occasion of 27th anniversary of Reporters' Club Nepal, Minister Lekhak mentioned, "Questions can be raised over our mistakes and weaknesses and we are compelled to answer the questions in present democratic republic system but raising question and filing a case against king was not possible in monarchy."     

Clarifying that autocracy could not be alternative to democracy, he suggested everyone to move ahead remaining within legal remit to strengthen democratic system, because the criticism made beyond legal framework would weaken democratic norms and values.     

The Home Minister protested the attack and fire incidents at business house, media, offices of political parties, adding it was necessary to identify such wrongdoers.     

The constitution has ensured the rights of peaceful assembly, but violent activities are unacceptable, he reminded, saying the Tinkune incident has revealed character of those who are against the present system. Mentioning that the government was committed to the safety of media sector, the Home Minister suggested a robust, impartial and safe journalism in democracy.     

He viewed media would play a significant role to ensure citizen's right to information.(RSS)