Nepalese Premier expresses frustration over inability to work

Jan 25, 2009, 14:24 GMT

Kathmandu - Nepalese Prime Minister Puspha Kamal Dahal Sunday expressed his frustration over his government's inability to implement programme, blaming the traditional working style of the bureaucracy, mindset and culture of the people.

Dahal, the chief of the former rebel fighters, went on national television and radio to call on people to assist government in implementing development programmes and eradicating social ills and traditions which he said were the major obstacle in the path of development.

'After five months of bitter experience of leading the government, I have reached a conclusion that it is impossible to fulfill Nepal's national resolve through traditional ways,' he said.

'For that, a new partnership is required among political parties,' Dahal added in his 35-minute-long address.

'The people had extremely high expectation from the current government which was not wrong. But after five months in government I want to make it clear that dramatic change is not possible with the old governance style and culture and tradition,' Dahal said.

His frustration came amid growing criticism of his government for so far being unable to provide relief measures to the people who are dealing with nearly 16 hours of powers cuts each day and growing inflation and crime.

However, he said the people themselves needed to work to make Nepal a better country and it was wrong to expect the government to fulfill all of people's wishes.

'The reins of power are now in the hands of its citizens, but what are we doing now? Sometimes I question if we are embarking on a path to anarchy,' Dahal said. 'I call on all youths not to engage in conflicts and channel their energy for development of the country.'

Dahal said the past five months had been a learning experience for the Maoists, who now lead a coalition government.

The Nepalese prime minister also announced a range of measures which he said would bring about social transformation mainly affecting women and backward areas.

Dahal declared that the ban on the tradition of dowry, which is outlawed in Nepal but still commonly practiced in southern plains, will be strictly enforced.

The tradition requires the bride to bring valuables and money to the groom's house during the time of wedding, and she is often subjected to torture by the groom's family if it is not done.

He also vowed to fight corruption, discrimination on the basis of caste and make efforts to construct power projects to end electricity outage.

The Maoists fought a decade-long insurgency to topple the monarchy in Nepal and establish a communist republic. Nearly 14,000 people were killed during the insurgency.

The Maoists joined mainstream politics after a mass protest toppled the King Gyanendra government in April 2006.

In April 2008, the Maoists emerged as the single largest party in the elections, although without a clear majority.

The Maoists have come under severe criticism for continuing their extortion and intimidations despite leading the government.