Leader Barshaman Pun Discusses Necessity of Elections, Geopolitical Challenges, and Weaknesses of Federalism

Leader of the Nepali Communist Party (NCP) and former Finance Minister Barshaman Pun ‘Ananta’ has stated that elections are necessary to prevent foreign interference and protect national sovereignty. Speaking at a press conference organized in Libang on Wednesday, Pun commented that Nepal has reached a sensitive state due to deep turmoil in world politics and geopolitical competition.

Leader Pun said, “Geopolitical sensitivity has increased. Competition between the world's powerful nations is intense. World politics is currently not operating under any rules. The world order itself is at a turning point. A situation is developing where might makes right.”

Leader Pun also described the demands of the Gen Z uprising as legitimate and worthy of addressing. However, he alleged that a trend of maneuvering and interference has also been observed under its guise. He said, “The legitimate demands that have been raised must be respected and addressed. But there has also been maneuvering under that cover.”

Pun also stated that there are structural weaknesses in the nearly decade-long practice of federalism. According to him, limitations have been seen across all three levels: among people's representatives, the administration, and political leadership.