Democracy's strength lies in conversation, not conflict: President Paudel

Kathmandu, Nov 7: President Ramchandra Paudel has said democracy will be further strengthened once conversation is continued and conflict kept at bay.     

During a meeting with the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Chair and Vice-Chair of the National Assembly, and the Speakers and Deputy Speakers of the Provincial Assemblies on Friday, the Head of the State emphasized the need to uphold democratic conduct by listening to and understanding the voices of citizens.     

“It is the need of hour to move forward with the realization that the successful conduct of the House of Representatives (HoR) election announced for March 5, 2026, is the duty of all of us. This is essential to protect the Constitution and further strengthen democracy, bearing in mind the aspirations of the younger generation for good governance and development,” he said.     

President Paudel stated that the consolidation of the parliamentary system is a national responsibility—not the duty of any single party, government, or leadership. He added that the special role of parliament and the government is to ensure structures and systems that can hear, understand, and address the voices of citizens.     

“The Constitution is not just a legal document; it serves as a roadmap for our collective journey, consensus and resolution,” the Head of State said, underlining the need for shared role to its protection. He further stated that dissenting voices should be heard and addressed through dialogue rather than brushing aside the problems. “That should be our policy and approach,” he remarked.     

Stating that the constitutional rights of the President are widely known, he said his recent ‘intervention’ in the Constitution was solely intended to safely steer the country through a critical juncture, even though the move might have appeared executive in nature. As the Head of State, he said he remains aware of and concerned about any potential unwanted interference with the Constitution.     

President Paudel also reminded political parties of their duties and responsibilities to ensure the successful conduct of the HoR elections. He cautioned that political statements made without considering the situation of the country could create further confusion among citizens. “Political parties and their leaders are not expected to keep citizens in confusion. It is their responsibility and indeed their duty to act with utmost clarity,” he said. (RSS)