Reflecting on 20 Years of Democracy: An Interview with Ramkumari Jhakri
Summary
Ramkumari Jhakri reflects on 20 years of democracy in Nepal, discussing successes of the people's revolution, the failure to implement socialist economic policies, the rise of new political forces, and challenges in exercising democratic rights.
Key Points
- Ramkumari Jhakri, a National Assembly member and former student leader, reflects on Nepal's 20 years of democratic practice.
- The 2062/63 people's revolution successfully ended autocratic monarchy and drafted a constitution securing citizens' rights.
- Post-revolution, Nepal followed a market economy path, weakening national industries and public corporations instead of fostering socialism-oriented economy.
- New political forces like the Rastriya Swatantra Party emerged due to narrow leadership in old parties, with youth entering politics significantly.
- Democracy exists in Nepal, but democratic institutions and local governments have failed to fully exercise the rights granted by the constitution.
