Political parties assure employment creation, investment after CA election

Major political parties today reiterated that a new constitution will guarantee economic prosperity of the country, provided a political commitment.

Emphasising on employment creation, business-friendly environment for foreign investors and development, the senior leaders of nine political parties – during a debate organised by Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI) – said that they would work for new Nepal after the Constituent Assembly (CA) elections.

They also stressed on political stability for rapid economic development. The country cannot afford a prolonged political transition, they said, adding that post CA election political parties should prioritise economic growth and development.

Nepali Congress stalwart Dr Ram Sharan Mahat, on the occasion, said that the government should be able to utilise untapped natural resources. At least 30 per cent of the GDP should be invested for rapid economic development, he said, adding that Nepal can achieve faster economic growth through the development of hydropower, agriculture and tourism sectors provided political commitment and stability.

CPN-UML leader Ishwor Pokhrel prioritised solution of energy crisis, promotion of professionalism in agriculture, industry and tourism sectors, apart from employment creation, whereas CP Mainali of the CPN-ML said that political stability, commitment and investment-friendly laws will attract foreign investors.

The debate though provided the public with an opportunity to question their leaders and hear what they have to say, they got little chance to directly ask their leaders on their parties' political and economic development agendas.

UCPN-Maoist, Nepali Congress, CPN-UML, Madhesi Jana Adhikar Forum Democratic-Nepal, Madhesi Jana Adhikar Forum-Nepal, Rastriya Prajatantra Party, Tarai-Madhesh Democratic Party Nepal, Sadbhavana Party, and CPN-ML took part in the debate that was coordinated by the private sector in association with the NGO working to strengthen and expand democracy worldwide.