27/05/2026
Constitution Amendment should be a National Concern -Bidur Adhikari
Media activist Bidur Adhikari, in his Facebook post, has publicly called for a national Debate on the issue of Constitution Amendment.
He wrote:
This is indeed a "once-in-a-lifetime" matter for many Nepalis, as the document established the federal democratic republic after decades of conflict, monarchy, and interim arrangements. However, the process has largely remained elite-driven with limited broad public engagement, raising valid concerns about legitimacy and ownership.
Recent Political Trigger:
After the March 2026 general elections, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) under Prime Minister Balendra (Balen) Shah secured a strong mandate (landslide victory with around 182 seats). Their manifesto emphasized constitutional reforms, drawing from Gen Z protests (2025), Madhesi/Janajati demands, governance issues, and electoral system changes.
Task Force in Action:
A task force under Asim Shah (PM's political advisor) was formed shortly after the government took office. It aims to prepare a "discussion paper" or concept note by consulting political parties, experts, and some stakeholders—not to draft amendments directly, but to outline possible areas. Meetings have occurred, with invitations extended to parties and limited youth voices.
The Lack of Mass Debates:
Public deliberation has been notably thin compared to the 2008–2015 Constituent Assembly era, which involved district visits, public feedback on drafts, and broader (if imperfect) consultations.
Reasons for limited mass engagement:
Elite and Party-Centric Process: Discussions occur mainly among party leaders, advisors, and select experts. The current task force has invited inputs but faced boycotts (e.g., from some Gen Z leaders citing unfulfilled prior agreements from 2025 protests).
Political Urgency and Instability:
Frequent government changes, protests, and crises prioritize short-term power-sharing over deep public processes. Past constitution-making was also criticized for backroom deals outside the Assembly.
Low Public Awareness/Ownership:
Many citizens view the Constitution as a political compromise rather than a "people's document." Implementation gaps (federalism, rights, corruption) fuel skepticism rather than widespread informed debate. Media coverage is often Kathmandu-centric. This contrasts with the Constitution's own preamble and history, which emphasized inclusivity and public aspirations.
Why Public Deliberation Is Essential for a "Once-in-a-Lifetime" Issue:
Constitutions derive legitimacy from popular sovereignty, not just parliamentary votes. Without broad deliberation:Legitimacy Deficit: Amendments could lack buy-in, leading to future instability or protests (as seen in 2015).
Potential Path Forward:
Expand the task force's consultations into structured, transparent public forums with neutral facilitation.
Publish the discussion paper widely for feedback (minimum 30-day notification is a start, but more is needed).
Use media, schools, and local governments for awareness.
Focus on evidence-based changes while protecting core features (fundamental rights, federalism principles).
Timeline: Aim for inclusive process before rushing to votes, given supermajority challenges.
Constitutional reform is necessary for evolving needs, but rushing it without public deliberation risks repeating past mistakes.
Mass public debates, interactions, and presentation, workshops are minimum requirements for garnering popular support and consensus.
For one, we are eager for such public debates and programs, provided we can afford them.
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