CPN-UML Candidate Naresh Bhandari Launches Campaign in Jumla, Confident of Victory

Jumla. Naresh Bhandari, the candidate representing the CPN (UML) in Jumla, has already commenced his election campaign.

Bhandari, who was elected as a Constituent Assembly member from Jumla in '064, is contesting for the House of Representatives election for the second time. He was elected to the Provincial Assembly in '074 and served as the Minister of Law for Karnali. He is considered an intellectual leader. Here is a brief interview with him regarding the election:

• What kind of response have you received from the people of Jumla during your election campaign?

It is very good. The atmosphere so far is in our favor.

• This is your second time contesting for the House of Representatives election, but they say Jumla does not elect the same MP twice, right?

Yes, this is a narrative. This narrative has backfired on Jumla itself. This idea is inherently contradictory. On one hand, we say Jumla should get leadership and ministers, and on the other hand, we say MPs should not be repeated. Jumla is historically the capital of the Khas Kingdom and a political center. It has remained an administrative and political hub since the Panchayat era.

A district with such a great history requires strong leadership and continuity to influence national politics. This narrative sounds appealing when heard. However, the thinking of 'not repeating the MP' has hindered the leadership development of Jumla. This time, the people of Jumla are eager to change this narrative.

• So, are you confident of winning the election this time?

I am absolutely confident.

• What is the basis for that?

Our primary basis is that we are organizationally strong. Secondly, the development work done in Jumla has been led by the Maoists. We are playing the role of the craftsman for Jumla's development. We are strong in all facts and figures, from organization to the execution of development work. The people understand this too.

Our winning basis is the calculation of future agendas, popularity, strategy, and tactics.

• It is said that problems within your own party have added to your challenge?

There are no problems within the party right now; everything has been resolved.

• Who is your main competitor in Jumla?

Organizationally, our main competition is with the Nepali Congress.

• Do you not consider Gyanendra Shahi, your former colleague Manarishi Dhital, or Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) as competitors?

They are also being discussed on social media. Organizationally, they are weak.

• If you win the election, what is your plan?

Jumla is a 'mother district' that gave Nepal language, civilization, and culture, but Jumla has always faced discrimination from central politics and state power. My fight in parliament will be on legal matters. The goal will be to pass the 'Sinja Civilization Bill' in parliament and establish Jumla as the donor of language and the cultural capital. However, I will not ask for votes based on this right now, but I will debate with facts and figures.

I want to make Jumla a model of development and prosperity. Therefore, I request the general public not to fall into the labyrinth of any delusion or rumor and to make me victorious by casting their precious vote.