CPN-UML Withdraws Support to Sudurpashchim Chief Minister, Cites Budgetary Concerns

Dhangadhi. Preparations are underway to change the government in Sudurpashchim after CPN-UML withdrew its support to the government led by Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah.

Why did UML leave the government? What will be the future political path? How does UML view the questions arising about the relevance of the provincial structure? We had a brief conversation with CPN-UML's Sudurpashchim Provincial Assembly Chief Whip Chakra Malla focusing on these issues.

Why did the situation arise to change the government with only 9 months left in the term of the Sudurpashchim Provincial Government?

We did not try to change the government by counting months or days. This is purely a political and policy matter. The budget recently introduced by the Sudurpashchim Provincial Government did not appear organized. The budget could not sustain the province's economy and ensure equitable distribution. The budget was presented in a way that would exploit public property, which was the responsibility of CPN-UML to stop. We repeatedly urged the government to correct and rewrite the budget, but the government did not listen to us. This situation has arisen because we remain firm in favor of good governance and transparency.

What was the flaw in the budget that led to the withdrawal of support?

The budget was not balanced. The budget was allocated in a way that would only benefit a few individuals or sectors. The budget did not touch upon the needs of the general public, the long-term development of the province, and productive sectors. Instead of coming up with a budget to remove the backwardness of Sudurpashchim, the budget became a means to fulfill the interests of the influential. Therefore, our conscience did not allow us to support this anti-people budget.

What kind of achievement-oriented work will the new government that is about to be formed do for the people of Sudurpashchim? Which the current government could not do?

Our main priority will be to fulfill national and provincial responsibilities. The upcoming government will invest in multi-year projects, create employment, build capital, and focus on inclusive development. Programs will be determined based on objective studies in essential services such as education, health, drinking water, transportation, and communication. We will move forward with the resolve to make the province prosperous by relying on rules and procedures.

What is the basis for believing that the upcoming coalition government will be sustainable and strong?

Coalitions are of two types – one based on self-interest and another based on resolve. In the past, some coalitions may have collapsed due to self-interest. However, UML has extended a hand of new cooperation with a firm resolve to build Sudurpashchim. We are ready to leave power, but we are not ready to abandon our good principles and resolve. If we move forward based on shared values and principles, this coalition will surely be sustainable and in favor of the people.

Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is demanding the abolition of the provincial structure, calling it 'expensive and unproductive'. Doesn't UML's behavior lend credence to their argument?

Federal democratic republic has come through great sacrifice, struggle, and martyrdom. Those parties that did not participate in its struggle do not understand its spirit and necessity. The provincial government is the government at the doorstep of the people. These are things said by RSP friends based on hearsay. Just as a child does not understand the value of a house, they do not understand the spirit of federalism. As for distortions, yes, there are certainly some weaknesses. Sometimes negative messages may have been conveyed due to the thinking of individuals. However, UML always stands against those anomalies and malpractices. We are ready to give up power, but we will not let the system be ruined.

Under whose leadership will the next government be formed in Sudurpashchim? Has an agreement been reached with the CPN?

Our desire is for all three main parties (UML, Maoist Center, and Congress) to come together and work for the development of the province. However, it depends on how the Nepali Congress takes it. If a three-party agreement is not reached, discussions will be held on UML and Maoist or other alternatives. UML is not just hungry for power. If our resolves do not align, we are also ready to serve the people and prevent malpractices by sitting in the opposition.

How long will it take to reach a conclusion? When will Sudurpashchim find a new way out?

We have already withdrawn our support. Now the Chief Minister has to gain a vote of confidence within a month. Today's main test is the budget itself. Whether he can pass the budget or bring it through an ordinance remains to be seen. If he paves the way based on morality, a way out will come quickly. Otherwise, a new government will be formed according to the constitutional process.