Make politics a noble means of social service: President Paudel

Kathmandu, Dec 15: President Ramchandra Paudel has called on all sides concerned to devote to nation-building by internalizing the mandate given by the citizens. He stressed the need for leadership with renewed thinking, style, plans, dedication, energy, conduct, and integrity to fulfill that mandate.

Addressing a programme organized on the occasion of the 31st Kathmandu Metropolis Day in the federal capital today, the Head of State said, “It is our responsibility to hand over a prosperous nation to future generations by addressing the needs of the present time. I believe we should not deviate from fulfilling our responsibilities.”

“It is necessary for us to cultivate the feeling that politics is neither a profession nor a business; rather, it is the noblest means of social service,” the President said, adding that this is precisely what the Nepali people expect at this moment. “The same sentiment was also expressed through the recent movement of the younger generation,” he added.

Stating that seeking the people’s mandate to find solutions to the nation’s existing problems is the supreme method in a democracy, the President called on all to move forward by making the upcoming elections to the House of Representatives a success.

“The House of Representatives elections will be held on March 5 to address the aspirations of the youth for change,” Paudel reminded. “Let us move ahead by making it a success and engage in building a prosperous Nepal along with the establishment of social justice and good governance.”

The President applauded Kathmandu Metropolitan City for its innovative achievements in economic, social, and physical development efforts as well as urban management.

“I believe that the services, facilities, and programmes delivered to service seekers and beneficiaries have validated the meaningful role played by youth leadership and energetic elected representatives in the metropolitan city,” President Paudel said.

He praised the local government that it had set examples in urban management, river and water systems, promotion of greenery, conservation of natural heritage, restoration of temples, monasteries, ponds, lakes, stone spouts, and physical heritage, as well as in efforts toward integrated urban development.

The President added that Kathmandu Metropolitan City has ensured its services are citizen-friendly, accountable, transparent, and service-oriented through the maximum use of information and communication technology, the operation of a single service centre, and the prioritization of a grievance-management system. “This has sent a message to the public that the level of government closest to their doorstep is capable of effective local governance,” he said.

Stating that not only the policies, plans, actions, and programmes implemented by the metropolitan city but also its experiences and lessons learned would serve as examples for other local levels, the President expressed his belief that the local government will continue striving to come up with the best possible policies, programmes, and plans.

He also said that for the prosperity of the capital city, the policies, programmes, and plans formulated by the metropolitan municipality require support and cooperation of all bodies, including the federal and provincial governments, for effective implementation.

The President expressed confidence that Kathmandu Metropolitan City will be able to deliver more effectively in the days ahead in addressing the needs, aspirations, and dreams of its residents.

Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav, Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut, Speaker Devraj Ghimire, and National Assembly Chair Narayan Prasad Dahal were also present on the occasion.

On the occasion, the President honoured individuals with outstanding contributions in various fields, while the Vice President awarded local representatives for their best performances in their respective areas. (RSS)