Role of the MPs not clear to the public, says MP Ganesh Parajuli

MP Ganesh Parajuli, a member of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, has voiced concerns over the growing disillusionment among the common people regarding the role of political parties and leaders in Nepal’s political landscape. During a recent interview with RSS, the 44-year-old MP emphasized that ordinary citizens have been receiving nothing but empty assurances and pledges from the political establishment.

Parajuli observed a palpable lack of trust among the general populace towards political parties and their leaders, reflecting the increasing disenchantment with Nepali politics and its leadership. He acknowledged that this distrust is clearly visible on the faces of everyday citizens.

In response to this concerning trend, MP Parajuli revealed that his party is actively engaging in constructive discussions with MPs from various constituencies, seeking multi-party dialogue as a means to address the people’s issues effectively. He stressed that their primary responsibility is to listen to the voices of common citizens and work towards improving their daily lives. In pursuit of this goal, he expressed readiness to collaborate with parliamentarians from any political party.

Parajuli, however, acknowledged that there is a significant lack of clarity among the public regarding the role of an MP. He attributed this confusion to political leaders who make grand assurances and pledges but often fail to provide a clear understanding of an MP’s responsibilities. Many ordinary people believe that MPs should be actively involved in development work in addition to their legislative duties.

The people residing in rural areas, who lack access to basic services, are hoping for assurances regarding health, education, and social security. While not everyone may fully comprehend the role of an MP, they continue to expect their basic needs to be addressed.

Ganesh Parajuli, a former businessperson who transitioned into politics, embarked on his political journey in 2022 as a founding central member of the Rastriya Swatantra Party. He represents Kathmandu District constituency No. 7 in the House of Representatives. Originally hailing from Khotang, Parajuli acknowledged that his first experience in parliamentary practice has been a learning curve for both himself and his party members.

Nevertheless, he expressed concerns about the slow pace of lawmaking, attributing the delays to both the government and the House. Parajuli emphasized that successful reforms require caution and cooperation from the government and established political parties, which hold a majority in the House.

MP Parajuli also criticized the established political parties for not prioritizing the issues that matter most to the common people. He asserted that while major political parties are primarily focused on safeguarding their own existence and popularity, the concerns of everyday citizens have taken a backseat.

Despite ideological differences, Parajuli remains optimistic that change is achievable through unity among all parties, with a shared focus on good governance, development, poverty alleviation, and the fight against corruption.