Biplav's Maoist Party Campaigns with 'Rose' Symbol for Upcoming Election

Kathmandu: As the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5 approaches, the Nepal Communist Party (Maoist) led by Netra Bikram Chand 'Biplav' is busy campaigning with the 'Rose' election symbol. 

The party has intensified its campaign, public mobilization, and the promotion of its ideological proposals. According to General Secretary Biplav, formal election activities began after January 20.

Biplav stated, "We have started campaigning, mobilizing the people, and sharing our issues and proposals. For us, this election is not just a contest, but a medium to raise people's issues." Known for street protests and ideological struggle, Biplav has long been a sharp critic of the parliamentary system. He explained that their participation does not mean they now accept the system as correct.

"We have not joined the election because we believe the parliamentary system is right," he said. "We believe it is wrong, and we are participating to raise the people's demands from within parliament to transform it into a system for the people."

He mentioned that the election manifesto is nearly ready and is in the final stages of discussion. The manifesto covers topics such as the form of governance, the role of the parliament, the economic system, international relations, environment, education, health, and employment. He clarified that the main goal is to transform the parliamentary system into a socialist one.

Regarding the choice of the 'Rose' as their election symbol, Biplav shared a poetic perspective. "As the song goes, 'In the eyes of a flower, the world is a flower.' The rose is a symbol of peace and love. 

Since it is red, it is also a symbol of revolution. It holds many meanings, but mainly, it has become a symbol linked to the people's feelings and the country's needs." He added that they are receiving positive feedback while taking the symbol to people's homes.

Biplav also addressed the much-discussed topic of a potential merger with the party led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda'. 

Despite long discussions through the Socialist Front, he concluded that an immediate merger is not possible due to theoretical and ideological differences. He claimed that Prachanda stepped back from initial agendas regarding Marxist-Leninist-Maoist principles, economic policies, and organizational styles.

He criticized the current practice of other communist parties, accusing them of merely "gathering people to win elections" without upholding core values. "Their organizational structure looks like a crowd gathered just to win. That is not a true unity, so we did not rush into it," he explained.

Commenting on the current government, Biplav remarked that the public does not even feel its presence. He also expressed concern about whether the upcoming election will be fair.

Biplav claimed his party envisions a Nepal that is independent and self-reliant, where youth find jobs and everyone has access to education and health. Reminding the public of their twelve years of struggle, including jail time and bans, he appealed to voters to give his candidates the responsibility to serve the country.