This is a two part report proceeding initially with details of external local events according to areas of thematic relevance for the UN RCO. The second part is a summary of internal UNRCO activities including advocacy on TJ issues, information related to the UNPFN as well as updates regarding the UNDAF and humanitarian response issues.
Summary
As expected, November saw considerably more activity at the ground level from both those advocating for, and those opposing identity based federalism. Both the CPN-UML as well as the NC have been vocal in blaming the opposition parties for blocking the constitution drafting process whilst continuing to make assurances that a first draft will be ready for the scheduled date of 22 January. The CPN – UML has been increasingly vocal in its opposition to identity based federalism.
Pro Hindu parties continue to oppose secularism and are still making demands for Nepal to return to a Hindu state. Following state intervention in an ongoing relay hunger strike in Kathmandu demanding Nepal return to a Hindu state effigies of the PM and the HM were burnt in Nepalgunj by members of the RPP-N and the Shiv Sena. The RPP-N is about to embark on a cross country signature campaign advocating for an end to secularism. The party Chairman Kamal Thapa has also announced an alliance with the former HM and NC leader Khum Bahadhur Khadka. The Chairperson of the RPP Pashupati Shumsher Rana has also publicly spoken regarding the issue stating that secularism should be decided through a referendum.
The 20 party alliance has been continuing its protest programs holding mass meetings in Panchtar,
Janakpur and Dhangadhi though attendance was reportedly not very high. Whilst in Jankapur Prachanda reportedly spoke of his unwavering support to the Madhesi cause. Interestingly Prachanda made a surprise visit to Rolpa stopping in Dang on the way where he spoke publicly accusing the NC and CPN-UML of obstructing the constitution drafting process. Whilst in Rolpa he reportedly stated he is even ready to go back to war if required. His visit to Rolpa has been an issue of much speculation though many see it as an opportunity for him to gauge his support base. Other members of the 20 party alliance have been critical of the NC/CPN – UML federal state proposal with the Tharuwat Tarai Party – Nepal (TTP-N) publicly objecting to Prachanda’s alleged pro Undivided Far West remarks made whilst holding a mass meeting in Dhangadhi.
The cancellation of the Indian PM’s planned visit to Janakpur was enveloped in confusion created by what appeared to be a significant communication gap between the central and district level. The cancellation of the visit led to protests by locals and political parties, including the 20 party alliance in Janakpur and the calling of a bandh that was reportedly relatively effective. Many are of the opinion that the GoN prevented the visit fearing unfavorable reactions in the Madhes.
Another significant development was the meeting held by Netra Bikram Chand (Biplab) in Kapilvastu where he reiterated the need to start another people’s war and threatened of splitting from the CPN-M.
Other developments include the formation of a new Common Platform for Conflict Victims and continued issues surrounding the recently formed Landless Commission. There were a few operational space incidents with the most notable being a Bandh called in the ER by the Federal Limbuwan Party Nepal (FLPN) that was reportedly quite effective.