Kathmandu: Lawmakers from multiple political parties have emphasized the pressing need for legislation to effectively implement federalism. During a Sunday discussion organized by the Association of Community Radio Broadcasters (ACORAB), they argued that delays in lawmaking would only prolong the implementation of federalism.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Mahendra Bahadur Shahi, a lawmaker from the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre), called on both the government and parliament to expedite the drafting of laws related to civil service, police, and school education, as these are crucial for the enforcement of federalism. Shahi expressed concern over the federal government’s reluctance to devolve powers to the provincial and local levels, highlighting issues such as federal interference in transport-related rights, which should be managed by the provinces.
Conversely, CPN (UML) lawmaker Ishwari Ghatri Magar noted that there has been some progress in lawmaking and that laws necessary for implementing constitutional provisions are nearing completion. However, she acknowledged delays at the federal level and criticized provincial and local governments for not being proactive in drafting legislation within their purview.
National Assembly Member Jayanti Devi Rai remarked on the lack of meaningful discussions on private bills in the absence of ministers. She pointed out that once lawmakers become ministers, they often lack the time to engage in legislative discussions, which further delays the lawmaking process. Rai also criticized political party leaders for focusing more on forming or toppling governments than on legislative duties, impacting the progress of lawmaking.
Kamala Panta, Chairperson of the Development, Economic Affairs, and Good Governance Committee, expressed concern that laws intended to support fundamental rights remain unenacted even a decade after the constitution’s introduction. Panta highlighted the failure to allocate budgets to provincial governments, despite granting them the authority to formulate periodic plans. She called for responsible behavior from the government and lawmakers in the legislative process, noting the current focus on amendments over the creation of new laws.