KATHMANDU:- The task force formed to prepare a discussion paper for the amendment of the constitution today held discussions with former heads of constitutional bodies, former chief secretaries, foreign affairs experts and former administrators.
The consultation held at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, which lasted for about three hours featuring an in-depth discussion on issues ranging from the form of governance to the federal structure, electoral system and constitutional bodies.
The task force formed under the coordination of the Prime Minister’s political advisor Asim Shah has made it clear that the constitution amendment will be taken forward with national consensus.
Experts participating in the discussion gave various suggestions for reforms in the form of governance, electoral system, federalism, powers of the provincial and local levels, independent judiciary and the structure of constitutional bodies.
Most experts emphasized reviewing the structure of the Constitutional Council, reducing the number of constitutional bodies to make them fully autonomous, reducing the number of ministries, and making experts as ministers. There was also a common view on empowering local levels, focusing lawmakers on lawmaking, limiting the number of ministries in provinces, and determining inclusive seats to ensure representation.
Foreign experts and participants suggested being aware of geopolitical balance, creating an environment of trust with neighboring countries, and reviewing treaties and agreements. In addition, emphasis was placed on empowering local levels for the effective implementation of federalism, harmonizing the tax system, and ensuring representation of women and marginalized communities.
In the discussion, former administrators and experts Bimal Koirala, Umesh Mainali, Tankamani Sharma Dangal, Madhuram Acharya, Man Bahadur BK, Yama Kumari Khatiwada, Bhanu Acharya, Somlal Subedi, Jayaraj Acharya, Krishnahari Baskota, Ganesh Joshi and others presented their opinions and suggestions.
The task force has stated that the suggestions received would be included into a discussion paper and further consultations would continue in the coming phase.