Prime Minister Dr Baburam Bhattarai has made it clear that he does not at all have an intention of clinging onto power for an indefinite period but is prepared to make any kind of sacrifice for the cause of the country and its people. Speaking at a meeting with cine artistes in Kathmandu the other day, Prime Minister Bhattarai said that he would seek consensus to end the political deadlock in the country. It is absolutely true that there must be consensus among the major political parties to give the country a genuine and tangible outlet, for which efforts should be made from the government as well as the opposition parties. However, the opposition parties are demanding the resignation of the Prime Minister and are creating unnecessary trouble, which is clearly aimed at pushing the country into further crisis and uncertainty. At a time when the election has already been announced, resignation of the Prime Minister would mean another political disaster. Prime Minister’s resignation at this critical period, when there is no parliament, would not only create political and constitutional vacuum but may also invite authoritarianism in the country. The country has, therefore, no better alternative other than the election, which is the best democratic exercise.

In a democracy, people have their say in the political decision making, which is the inalienable right of the people. People exercise this right through their representatives who are elected by them. Thus, election is the soul of democracy and it is the duty of the political parties and responsible citizens to make sincere contribution on their part to ensure free and fair election. But the political parties have opposed the election and said that they would not take part in this democratic exercise, which cannot be a responsible behavior for the parties and forces that uphold democratic norms and ideals. Running away from election simply indicates that the parteis are either afraid of facing the people or they have no faith in democracy. Otherwise, there should not be such hue and cry against the election. The Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML claim that they always believe in democracy and uphold democratic norms and values. But their recent activities and remarks are against what they have championed for years and decades. As far as the political consensus is concerned, the Prime Minister has clarified time again that he is always open and positive to forge national consensus and form a national unity government. But there is still no guarantee that national consensus will be forged after the Prime Minister quits. If any party or parties guarantee national consensus, Prime Minister Bhattarai would not create any obstacle but pave the way for a consensus government. Thus, the ball is now in opposition parties’ court.