National Assembly Chairman Dahal Stresses Need for Constitutional Amendments

Kathmandu. National Assembly Chairman Narayan Prasad Dahal has stated that the constitution is not a rigid or immutable document and that it should be amended and revised according to time and public aspirations. Speaking at an interaction on 'Second Decade of Constitution Implementation: Opportunities and Challenges' organized by 'National Legislative Academy' on the occasion of Constitution Day 2083, Chairman Dahal said that reforms are necessary in matters other than the basic principles of the constitution in a timely manner. Raising the issue of constitutional amendment being discussed, Chairman Dahal said that its objective should be clear. He said, 'The objective of constitutional amendment is not to turn back from past achievements, but it should be focused on making the democratic system more mature and strong.' He stated that fundamental features such as republic, federalism, secularism, and proportional inclusion are common heritages of the nation and that amendments should be made only to strengthen them. Chairman Dahal pointed out the delay in lawmaking as a major challenge as the country enters the second decade of constitution implementation. 'The constitution has given rights, but the first condition for implementing those rights is the legal mechanism. Unfortunately, laws in accordance with the constitution have not yet been fully made,' he said. He stated that the next decade should be taken as the 'Decade of Constitutional Full Implementation and Institutional Strengthening.' He emphasized the need for clear division of authority, natural resources, and employees among the three tiers of government for the successful test of federalism. Chairman Dahal said, 'The success of federalism does not depend on the number of government tiers, but on the quick, efficient, and quality services that citizens receive.'