After nearly a decade of delay marked by haggling and political infighting, Nepal formally adopted a constitution on Sunday, with President Ram Baran Yadav calling the moment a realization of “the continuous democratic movements initiated by Nepalese people” after he signed the document. Yet the process that led to the adoption of the Constitution, intended to bring much needed unity to the impoverished, fractious Himalayan nation, proved divisive and was attended by paralyzing strikes and violence that led to more than 40 deaths. The Constitution aims to reinforce Nepal as a secular, democratic republic with a provision for the protection of religion, and establishes seven provinces. Its passage is the latest chapter in a turbulent history that includes a bloody civil war, the overthrow of the 239-year-old monarchy and a devastating earthquake in April that killed thousands and left thousands more homeless.
Sunday’s ceremony marked the culmination of months of negotiations among the leaders of Nepal’s major political parties, which led to agreements on proportional representation in Parliament and the size and borders of the provinces.
“We believe the country will move to adopt a speedy path of socioeconomic development,” Mr. Yadav said.
But the new Constitution has deeply alienated much of Nepal’s southern plains and the Madhesi people there, who have said that it dilutes their representation. Ethnic Tharus in western Nepal have also strongly objected to the provincial boundaries.
Full Article: Amid Protests, Nepal Adopts Constitution – The New York Times.
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