Nepali Congress committed to good governance: Dr. Mahat

By Laxmi Chaudhary,Janakpurdham, Apr. 12: Nepali Congress spokesperson and former Finance Minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat has clarified that the Nepali Congress has always stood firmly in favour of good governance.

Speaking at a press conference held in Janakpurdham on Friday, he asserted that the party has consistently upheld its commitment to good governance. “If any individual personally supports misgovernance, they should face legal consequences. If they are dishonest, they must be punished,” he said.

Dr Mahat emphasised that the Nepali Congress continues to uphold the ideals and principles of its founding leader, BP Koirala. “The government must be based on the rule of law. Citizens must have access to economic prosperity. We have focused on areas such as social security, healthcare services and infrastructure development," he said. Our policy 

He described the Nepali Congress as the largest and most experienced political party in the country. Despite the rise and fall of other parties, he said, the Congress has consistently earned the public's trust. “A coalition government demands many compromises, yet the Nepali Congress has always worked to institutionalise good governance, transparency, and the rule of law,” he added.

Highlighting the importance of cleanliness and environmental initiatives in a historic city like Janakpurdham, Dr Mahat praised Bimalendra Nidhi for his significant contributions to infrastructure development. He noted that improved waste management would enhance the city's aesthetic appeal.

Dr Mahat also identified the Kamala Diversion Project as a priority for the Nepali Congress and credited the party with conceptualising the Postal Highway. “Once bridges over the Kamala and Bagmati rivers are completed, work on the Postal Highway, a vital artery for Madhes, will accelerate. If the government is committed, the route from Jhapa to Kanchanpur can be completed within two years,” he said.

He further remarked that the transformation of industry, trade, tourism and agriculture is essential for the prosperity of Madhes Province. Owing to the geography of the Terai, he said, its potential for industrial and commercial growth surpasses that of the hills. 

Dr Mahat underscored the importance of effective provincial government, stating that coordination between federal, provincial and local levels is crucial for maintaining good governance across the country.

Reflecting on Nepal’s past, he reminded the younger generation that, despite romanticisation of the monarchy and Panchayat era, public access to healthcare, electricity, roads, and basic living standards was extremely poor at the time. “The average life expectancy was just 55 years; today, it stands at 73. That is why democracy remains the only viable option,” he said.

Regarding the party’s 15th General Convention, Dr Mahat stated that it will be held in accordance with the decision of the Central Committee. However, he acknowledged that even after four years, it is unlikely to be held by the month of Mangsir.

The press conference was also attended by Nepali Congress central member and House of Representatives member Bimalendra Nidhi, Congress Dhanusha President Yogendra Pajiyar, and other leaders and party activists.