In an apparent gimmick, the first female president of Nepal, Bidya Devi Bhandari has sought a car worth 160 million from the government. This demand comes at a time when hundreds of Nepali women are dying due to the stone-age tradition of Chhaupadhi. Moreover, the suffering of women who are trafficked and face abuse and violence both within and without their homes cannot be ignored. Furthermore, the roads in Kathmandu are muddy and one can only wonder as of where the expensive car will be driven. Has the presidential office overlooked the state of the nation?
The unabated demands of state officials isn’t a new thing to Nepalis. But enough is enough. Being the first female president of Nepal, it is her responsibility to not indulge in such greedy affairs. Even the social media has gone abuzz with parodies about the claim. It is unfortunate that the citizens need to mock a state level official due to such unfair want. Should Nepal continue to be a nation with rich leaders and poor citizens?
Democracy calls for a transparent and equal society and with such demands made from time-to-time, Nepalis cannot expect or even dream of achieving equality in near future. The citizens aren’t against the state officials from enjoying the perks but it shouldn’t be the envy of the people. The elected leaders should understand that in a democratic nation one cannot abuse power and authority for one’s need. The citizen of this poor nation asks accountability from its leaders. How long should this tradition of state leaders siphon off from the state coffers? The government should be reminded that people are still suffering due to the 2015 earthquake.
Nepal’s democratic transition is moving forward to a conclusion and the citizens of this beautiful nation can only hope that the leaders will become more accountable and responsible towards its citizens. It’s time that the leaders stop asking for such expensive fleets.
