Be vigilant not to let money influence polls: PM Karki

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Jan. 17: Prime Minister Sushila Karki said that communities themselves must remain vigilant to prevent the influence of money in elections.

“There are complaints that money played a role in the past. If corruption is to be ended, it must begin with elections. Voters must also be alert in this regard,” she said to the delegation from the Nepal Tamang Ghedung that met her on Friday to discuss issues including the population of the Tamang community, its culture, and its socio-economic conditions.

Likewise, she said that as elections are the only democratic way out of the present situation, she expects cooperation from all sections and strata of society.

According to her, the country has entered the election period. This is not an election under normal circumstances; it is an election that will provide an exit for the country and take it towards lasting stability. 

“Let us keep September 8 and 9 in mind. This situation must not be repeated. We must move in line with the aspirations of the youth. You too should ensure that new, young and honest members of parliament are elected and sent to the parliament in the coming election. The country can no longer be run with an old mentality,” said PM Karki. 

She also maintained that old thinking and old styles will not work either. “Now there must be something new—youth must come forward, and honest people must come forward. Government must be run in accordance with the sentiments of the youth,” she stated. On the occasion, the office-bearers of the Ghedung drew the Prime Minister’s attention to the fact that although the Tamang community’s population exceeds three million, census errors have shown it to be only around 1.7 million.

 They appreciated her for coming forward to handle the current difficult situation and also wished her success.

On the occasion, the Ghedung also informed her that it is planning to organise a Tamang Cultural Festival and a goodwill exchange programme in Kathmandu on the occasion of Sonam Lhosar on January 19, Monday.