E-Kantipur

KATHMANDU, MAR 23 - Mukul Humagain and Anil Giri of The Kathmandu Post spoke to Sujata Koirala.

Excerpts:

The demise of Girija Prasad Koirala has created big vacuum in national politics. What do you think is the way ahead?

There is no alternative to consensus. If we can forge political consensus among the parties, we can resolve the toughest issues. Girijababu also wished for the same. He was always concerned about the logical conclusion of the peace process and timely promulgation of the constitution. And, the Maoists should also play a positive role in this regard. When Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal visited Girijababu, he had  asked him to save the nation.

How do you see the future of Nepali Congress?

Girijababu used to tell us never to act against people’s wish. Yes, we feel his absence now. However, the Nepali Congress leadership should be united and they should shun personal interest for the party. After Girijababu’s departure, there is a huge vacuum in the party. If we move forward cohesively, we can fill that vacuum.

Would the absence of Girijababu eventually lead the party towards collective leadership?

Well, we have to discuss collective leadership in the party. However, there will be only one party president. Whoever wants to take up the leadership has to show capability. The likes of Ram Chandra Poudel, Sher Bahadur Deuba and Sushil Koriala have to show their leadership quality and unite the party. I have not thought about leading the party yet, but I will continue with my politics. My immediate goal is to strengthen the party. Moreover, my full support would be there for this cause.

How do you see the attendance of high profile Indian ministers at Girijababu’s funeral? Is that  testimony of Indian honour to Girija babu?

We have longstanding relationship with Pranab Mukherjee and other Indian leaders. There might have been ups and down in the relationship but it never soured. The fact that Indian leaders came to Kathmandu to pay tribute to him shows the regard India has for Girijababu.

Girijababu was instrumental in setting up the High Level Political Mechanism (HLPM). Do you see its significance after his demise?

HLPM should be given continuity. The whole essence of HLPM is to resolve the current political impasse. If we can give it continuity, it can serve the country well.

Posted on: 2010-03-23 12:00

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