Deputy PM Nidhi says civic elections cannot be delayed

The government of Nepal will ensure greater representation of the Madhesi people in the local bodies, said a leading political figure from Kathmandu. Deputy-Prime Minister Bimalendra Nidhi said here on Tuesday, that the elections cannot be delayed and the Madhesis will have to show flexibility even as the Madhesi morcha leaders said that they are determined to prevent the election process without the constitutional amendments.

“We will ensure greater participation of the Madhesis in the local bodies which will address the demand for greater representation of the Madhesi population in the local bodies”, said Mr. Nidhi, adding, “we are willing to consider other demands like the territorial demarcation and inclusion of Madhesi language in the coming days”.

Mr. Nidhi, who is on a brief visit to India, said that the government of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ will take into consideration views of all sides before holding the elections.

The peace overture drew a quick negative response from the Madhesi leaders who said that Kathmandu is trying to mislead the Madhesis. “Madhesis constitute 52% of the total population of Nepal but have barely 20% representation in the National Assembly. The local level elections have not been held for two decades but already the government is planning to reduce the power of these bodies as they are not allowing the provinces to hold the elections in the lawful manner,” said Upendra Yadav, coordinator of the United Madhesi Democratic Front.