Former PM Bhattarai Claims Old Political Parties Declining, New Forces Inevitable

Kathmandu. Former Prime Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai has claimed that old political parties are on the path of decline due to their own weaknesses and that the emergence of new alternative forces in the country is now inevitable. 

Speaking at the occasion of the establishment day of Naya Shakti in Kathmandu on Saturday, Dr. Bhattarai mentioned that just like the 'creative destruction' rule of economics, the end of old forces is necessary for the development of a new system.

Bhattarai stated that the National Independent Party (RSP), which emerged as a new force, has achieved success by understanding science, technology, and the sentiments of the middle class. However, he commented that RSP's ideological stance is 'right of center'.

He emphasized that the fact that the majority of the country's population is still below the poverty line and 70-80 percent of citizens are deprived of education, health, and dignified employment should not be ignored. Former Prime Minister Bhattarai expressed the view that there should be at least two major alternative forces in place of the old forces.

According to him, there should be competition between a 'right of center' force like RSP and a 'left of center' (center-left) force with progressive ideas. He argues that only when these two forces cooperate on the issue of nationalism and compete on policy matters will it be beneficial for the country.  

He said, "They should be given the benefit of doubt for now. Instead of criticizing a newly emerged force right away, they should be given an opportunity to work. Nepal's ethnic, regional diversity and economic backwardness cannot be left solely to the market. For this, a development-oriented path with an active role of the state is necessary."

He admitted that during his political campaign, changing the name of 'Naya Shakti' repeatedly after establishing the brand created confusion among the public, and that was their weakness.

Dr. Bhattarai claimed that old forces no longer have any plan or space to improve the country, and alternative forces are the only way out now. He stated that the past governments have already proven that a majority or two-thirds government alone does not provide a way out.