Prabha Karki Discusses Political Journey and Parliamentary Role

Women entrepreneur and businesswoman Prabha Karki is a proportional member of parliament (MP) from the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). Prabha, who became a member of the House of Representatives (MP) from the Khas Arya quota, is also the vice-chairperson of RSP's Lalitpur district. She entered politics with the belief that change is possible in Nepal's politics. She states that she reached parliament not for position, identity, or power, but to raise a strong voice for good political culture and the welfare of the people. Presented here is the conversation with Prabha for Ratopati's 'With the MP' column:

You were previously in trade and business, why did you suddenly become an MP?

More than wanting to, time brings forth opportunities. After I had largely completed my responsibilities, the time ahead is dedicated to society. I have now reached a place to serve the public as an MP. This is more a demand of the time than a desire.

What experience have you gained after becoming an MP?

Before becoming an MP, I used to think, 'Wow! This is a very big position, a very big place.' After becoming an MP myself, I am realizing that this place is not so much big as it is a place with many responsibilities.

In the meantime, you also participated in various training programs organized by the Parliament Secretariat and the party. What did you learn?

I learned many things in the training. I learned about the work and responsibilities that need to be done after becoming an MP. We learn everything; we are not born knowing everything from our mother's womb. Therefore, everyone must learn in the field. I learned how to speak inside parliament, what to pay attention to when speaking, what to do, the rules and laws within it, and how to follow them.

What were your commitments during the election? What promises did you make to the people?

I became an MP from the proportional representation system. Therefore, I did not make specific promises. The change desired by all Nepali citizens is the main agenda of our Rastriya Swatantra Party, and we campaigned on that. Apart from that, we did not ask for votes by making false promises like 'I will build a road in front of your house,' 'I will fix the broken bridge,' 'I will do all your work.'

What issues do you want to raise your voice on in parliament?

I was involved in business from before. My objective was for the sisters staying at home to earn some money by working. We also worked on that. Through a cleaning company, we provided employment to many sisters. I used to see issues like workers not receiving their due wages, not receiving the facilities provided by the government. I am now raising questions about these very issues. I am raising my voice in the house about workers receiving minimum wages and giving them their rights.

What plans do you have to make your tenure meaningful and significant?

All Nepalis sent RSP to parliament with full confidence that RSP would bring good governance. Good governance should be received equally by everyone, from the big to the small. The narrative that laws do not apply to the powerful but only to the weak must be broken. How can the problems of the working class be addressed? I will be very focused on ensuring that the common people receive what they are entitled to and will work towards solutions.

How much time do you get to interact with the public and listen to their grievances?

I have given most of my time to the Nepali people. One of my specialties is that I have told them to call me directly on my mobile. I respond to their calls and messages. I am doing what I can, whether it's in committees or ministries, telling them where things need to be said. I feel I am very close to the people.  

What message would you like to give to the people you represent, especially your district and countrymen?

The public is a bit impatient because the mismanagement, corruption, and irregularities of the past 30-40 years have created disappointment among the people. What the people want is not being implemented anywhere, and the powerful have had their way. I tell the public that we have just completed three months. We have a lot of work to do. Five years is not enough time to establish order after 40 years of mismanagement. Therefore, give us the opportunity to work. I want to assure you that we will fulfill your work, expectations, and trust very well.