Speaker Aryal pledges reforms in House procedures

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Apr. 18: Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal, has pledged to introduce comprehensive changes to parliamentary procedures, including transparency of proceedings and closer consultation with stakeholders and journalists in a bid to make the upcoming sessions more transparent and effective.

Addressing an interaction programme with parliamentary journalists at Singha Durbar on Friday, Speaker Aryal highlighted that preparations were underway to conduct the session in a different and effective manner. He underscored his intention to broadcast all parliamentary activities live, asserting that there should be no room for secrecy in legislative processes.

“We are not in favour of hiding anything, and I have stressed that transparency will be a cornerstone of my tenure,” he said. Aryal added that inclusive consultations with stakeholders would be prioritised before drafting any legislation, noting that repeated discussions would help ensure more comprehensive and widely accepted laws.

Aryal also indicated that amendments to parliamentary rules were being considered to expedite the law-making process. He warned that broader impact of legislative delays and slow progress in passing laws could adversely affect the overall progress of society and hinder the delivery of timely benefits to citizens. 

He stressed the need for Parliament to meet the expectations of the people by delivering tangible results. “I urge cooperation from all sectors, including the media, to identify gaps and improve performance. I am committed to fast-tracking Nepal’s law-making process, as delays in legislation could have serious consequences for the country,” he said. “I want those wearing slippers to be able to afford shoes, and those riding bicycles to own motorbikes. I seek the overall development of the country and its people,” he added.

During the interaction, journalists raised concerns over practical challenges faced while covering parliamentary affairs. They cited technical obstacles in accessing the parliament building, including the use of separate entry gates for the federal parliament, as well as stringent security measures that complicate photography and reporting.

Member of the press urged the Speaker for easier access for reporting parliamentary affairs and proceedings. They asked for better infrastructure for reporting and admission for reporters in line with protocols and the principles of press freedom.

Responding to these concerns, Speaker Aryal acknowledged that the existing difficulties were due to the temporary meeting hall currently in use. He expressed confidence that such issues would be resolved once the permanent building is completed. He pledged to coordinate with the Parliament Secretariat and security agencies to simplify entry procedures and facilitate smoother reporting conditions.

“The relationship between the parliament and the press is indispensable for strengthening democracy. I remain committed to improving journalists’ access and supporting transparent coverage of parliamentary activities,” he said. “I am available to the journalist at any time and I hope to make our relation more transparent and strong,” he added.

Speaker Aryal further stated that he viewed his role as an opportunity for institutional improvement, vowing to uphold positive precedents while addressing past shortcomings. “I call on the media to play a constructive role, encouraging balanced reporting that not only highlights weaknesses but also contributes to solutions,” he said.

The speaker reiterated his commitment to ensuring that parliamentary processes are guided by constitutional principles and that reforms introduced during his tenure would strengthen democratic governance in Nepal.