| Celebs
on New Year and Country
-by Sampada Malla
Updated on Monday,
April 24, 2006
| “Did you too, O friend, suppose democracy was only for
elections, for politics, and for party name? I say democracy
is only for use there that it may pass on and come to its flower
and manners, in the highest form of interactions between people
and their beliefs-in religion, literature, colleges and schools-democracy
in all public and private life….” –Walt Whitman |
This New Year has
been a different experience for every Nepali living inside and outside
the borders of Nepal. If the insiders are welcoming their new year
amid the day by day uprising public protests organized by the major
political parties of Nepal, people outside Nepal are also suffering
through immense mental conflicts to visualize their country in such
an anarchical and chaotic situation.
At this time of major crisis, our national
new year has not brought the same amount of happiness, excitement
and enthusiasm as the past years previously did. ‘May peace
prevail in our country soon’ –This New Year, everyone’s
voices seem to be the same. When we asked couple of our celebrities
about their New Year plans and resolutions, not many seemed enthusiastic
and we exactly knew the reason why. We also asked them about their
views on the current public protests and each of them had a different
thing to say.
Priyanka Karki
(Miss Teen 2005, Model & Television Presenter)
On new year celebrations:
I celebrated this new year by working in my office, Kantipur Television.
Nothing special happened.
On new year resolutions:
I want to get thinner this year. My resolution is also to grow personally
and professionally.
On present public
protest:
I am in full support of democracy. I think the motive of the protest
is good but the violent movement that they have taken is wrong.
The general lives have been badly affected. The concerned authorities
should sort out these problems in the top level itself without negatively
involving the public.
Nirnaya Shrestha (Singer)
On New Year Celebrations:
This new year, we had a family get together. Nothing much happened.
On New Year Resolutions:
Though making resolutions is a hip trend, I do not have much belief
in this trend. So this new year as always, I have no resolutions.
On present public
protest:
Our country already has innumerable unsolved problems. In this pathetic
situation, I do not think it is right to conduct such a violent
kind of public protest. This has only added to our problems with
regular curfews, 'bandhs', mobile disconnections etc. This protest
has also damaged our country's valuable infrastructures. Peace and
freedom can not be achieved through such violent activities. Ultimately,
we, the public are the sufferers.
Cecilia Gurung
(Model, Television Presenter, Miss Tourism Queen Nepal)
On new year celebrations:
This new year, I celebrated in a very simple way with my family
and close friends.
On new year resolutions:
More than a resolution, I'll tell you what I want to do. I want
to enter into serious journalism. Recently, I visited a public protest
in Gongabu and that was the time I realized that the glamour field
I am involved in is so fake. The real world is out there and I wondered
what was happening in my country. I also wish to join politics.
On present political
protest:
We need democracy and autocratic government can never succeed. This
peaceful public protest has taken up such a violent and dangerous
shape. It is destroying public properties and discriminating public
rights. Innocent people are being killed and harshly injured. The
outsiders are taking advantage of this public protest and it is
day by day turning into a terrorist act. The general public has
become a puppet by an unknown force and it has led into sheer confusion.
We need to take some time and do it in a peaceful way.
Suraj Singh Thakuri
(Music Video Director, TV producer & Presenter)
On new year celebrations:
I celebrated it by working very hard in making a new set for Call
Kantipur(TV show in Kantipur TV).As every new year, I started my
day by watching the sunrise.
On new year resolutions:
My new year resolution is to have a good and sound sleep. I have
been extremely busy working. I want to have some rest and quality
time for myself.
On present public
protest:
We need democracy which means freedom of expression. It's not bad
to protest but we need to do it strategically, systematically, productively
and scientifically. I think it's not right to protest by halting
our work. Infact, we can protest it by working twenty four hours.
This violent way of protest is absolutely wrong. The government
is also to blame for mishandling the situation. I think in our country,
the citizens should hold the supreme position. Educated and young
people should be elected. More than having a political background,
the electors should be people who understand and feel the real pains
and sentiments of the common masses. Our political leaders have
never been able to understand people's wants and demands.
Nima Rumba (Singer)
On New Year
celebrations
I celebrated this new year with my family and close friends. We
went for a family outing and had lots of fun.
On New Year Resolutions
My most important resolution this year is to quit smoking and drinking.
What will be new
this year ?
My new album "Pride" will be launched very soon. In this
album, I have tried to experiment with new styles of songs. I have
sung hiphop song and have also tried rapping on it.
On present public
protest
I am in a neutral position right now. I think that the common people
have suffered a lot in this public protest and the concerned authorities
should come up with a solution as soon as possible. Democracy can
also exist in the presence of the King. Peace and freedom are our
basic requirements today.
Sugam Pokhrel (Singer)
On New Year celebrations
I am celebrating this new year with my family and enjoying every
bit of it. I was scheduled for couple of musical programs in Hotel
Soaltee and Bhaktapur but they got cancelled due to the country’s
present condition.
On New Year Resolutions
My foremost resolution is to lose my weight. I’ll also try
to create different kinds of music.
On the present public
protest
I fully support the present movement of the political parties. The
King has been doing wrong. Tyrannical government can never succeed.
We need to be a republic country in order to bring peace, freedom
and prosperity. The King is ruling the country only on the basis
of Guns and terrors. We need democracy. Till now, I think our corrupt
leaders have also learnt a good lesson.
I have donated funds for the injured demonstrators
through my office Radio Sagarmatha. Only protesting in the streets
is not a way to express our disapprovals. We can also do so from
our own respective fields.
Nabin Bhattarai
(Singer)
On New Year celebrations:
This New Year (today), I am celebrating in a simple way with my
family and close friends. I have also been attending many fan calls
and exchanging New Year greetings with them.
On New Year Resolutions:
I do not believe in keeping New Year resolutions
because promises should be kept and maintained. I do not want to
keep any promise which has any chance of being broken. Rather, I
like to move with the flow and live every moment to the fullest.
I want to accept life as it comes.
What will be new this year?
My new album “G Major” will be
soon out in the markets within two months. In this experimental
album, I have used acoustic music and have entirely emphasized in
exploring different forms of human feelings. This year I am also
performing a solo live concert after three and a half years.
On the present public protest:
I don’t have much to say. Every people
have the right to be free and independent and this protest demands
just this.
Sarah Gurung
(Miss Nepal 1st Runner Up, Model & Television presenter)
On New Year celebrations:
I was supposed to host a show in Hotel
Annapurna with VJ Pia for the New Year Eve. For today, I was to
choreograph a fashion show and host it in Hotel Everest. But due
to the present condition of our country, they got cancelled on the
last moment. So, right now, I am doing nothing except hoping that
peace soon prevails in our country. Being a Catholic, I am looking
forward for celebrating Easter.
On New Year Resolutions:
Making resolutions is just not my cup
of tea. I believe in being spontaneous and making full use of the
present time. By making promises, I don’t want to live in
a world of fairy tales. For me, planning has never been successful
so I believe in grabbing the right opportunities that follow me.
I don’t want to make my life terrible with ‘hard to
fulfill’ promises.
On the present
public protest:
Though I am not at all interested in politics, I think it
is useless doing these kinds of public protests. Democracy is an
essential aspect of every country in this 21st century but our country
still needs to learn how to use democracy in a way that will create
maximum public welfare. For the past many years, our corrupt leaders
have completely misused their democratic powers. So until we learn
the true essence of democracy, the King must keep their powers.
Our Readers' Opinions
We are extremely thankful for your invaluable
opinions. More opinions will be published tomorrow.
Updated on Monday, 24 April 2006
Mohan Kumar Sharma
Ilam, Nepal
Opinion: The King's Address is just an attempt to confuse the general public. It's
an illusion. But thank god, Nepali people have grown far much rational and sensitive. The remedy to the present situation is that either the King must give off his absolute powers and remain as an honored King without the driving mechanism of the country in his hand or flee out of the nation so that the people will choose their own government and drive the nation themselves.
Sandeep Sah
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: The royal speech is given by the King only to overcome the foreign pressures. He wants to separate the 7-parties by giving an opportunity for the post of the prime minister. He only claims that he has given the sovereignty power to the people
but even now all the power is in his hand. The King wants to rule the country himself and wants everyone to follow his constitution. He only wants to gamble the treasures of the
country and entertain it. Therefore his statement goes in vain. There should be protest for republic against the royal speech.
Shashwot
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: Yes, the 7 parties should appoint a prime minister and let the kingdom
head towards the path of democracy. The appointed prime minister then should appoint his own parliament and conduct election. But we also need the King which we have been learning from our childhood. He should never be excluded because he has a glorious history, his forefathers are the one who established the country named Nepal. Thus, he will always think about the people while the political parties will come and go.
Manish
Virginia, USA
Opinion: I have just one question. Who is going to take hold of the power once the King goes away? Who are the people that will be responsible for the future Nepal? Can they be trusted if the King cannot be? Aren't these political people in the same category as the King, people who we cannot trust? I don't know what is going to be the future of Nepal. I hope that all turns out well.
Riya Gurung
California, United States
Opinion: I think his statement is right. But what if he is not speaking the truth, what if he takes his word back? I think people should stop violence first of all and work hard to reestablish peace. There are many people who want to visit this beautiful country but are unable to do so because of obvious reasons. It pains a lot to see Nepal in such a chaotic condition.
Chering Thakuri
Toronto, Canada
Opinion: I like to thank those who sacrificed their lives during the recent demonstrations and my pray for the departed souls. As a descendent of Nepal, I would like to suggest not agreeing on the King's address. People should demonstrate continuously. Nepal no longer needs the King, he is just an obstacle in bringing democracy. I am sure that Nepal will be prosperous once again because our politicians has already learnt their mistakes and now they will represent the people of Nepal genuinely.
Updated on Sunday, 23 April 2006
Encrypto Da Brainee
Singapore
Opinion: We whole heartedly welcome the current protests. Before,
when there used to be some protests, only active political people
were seen on the streets but now the common people are also marching
along. I believe that there is no need of a King in today's 21st
century. I would like to say to the so called Maoists to cooperate
with the seven parties actively. Come forward in the political activity,
come out of the Jungle and throw the King away. I totally disagree
with Sarah Gurung's opinions when she says that we should not get
democracy until we know how to utilize it. I would like to tell
her that democracy is an exercise. We learn more of it as we practice
it.
Ram
Bethesda, USA
Opinion: Democracy is not an option, it is the right of every person
and hence the democratic rights of the Nepalese citizens should
not be violated. Silencing the voice of the people in the name of
protecting them is something that should not happen and the King
should take responsibility for every such action that has taken
after his assumption of executive power. On the other hand the politicians
should not be made to look like saints and the people should also
hold them accountable for the present situation of the Nepali people.
The Nepali people have time and again supported them but they have
never understood the plight and desire of the people. Just like
the overwhelming flow of support against the present autocracy by
the people, the people should also be vocal in their desire for
a corruption-less and nepotism free Nepal. Let us not in our desire
to have democracy focus all our anger and frustration against the
monarchy and condone the politicians and civil servants for the
deprivation that they have brought upon the Nepalese people. The
general people have never been able to enjoy sovereignty. We have
always been a victim of nepotism, corruption and civil liberty violation
from everyone whom we have trusted to be our guardian. The demonstrations
in the last couple of weeks show that no one can trample our civil
liberties, we should also demonstrate to the politicians and civil
servants that this present revolution is not just against the present
regime but against every person who works against the welfare and
desire of the ordinary person. The ordinary person is not really
ordinary but the real source of power. If we can shake up the monarchy
so can we crush corrupt politicians and civil servants! Long live
the people power!
Jai Nepal
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: I think that his Majesty the King has taken the first
step for a dialogue process but if the political party do not take
this offer they are making a mistake.
Name : Ram Basnet
Detroit, USA
Opinion: I have an objection to the use of the very first words
in the topic-'Respected'. If the writer of that sentence is not
a policeman or a soldier, the word 'respected' should not have been
used. Not a single civilian should call the King "Respected".
The King should be called "loathed".
Renegadmaster
Bath, UK
Opinion : I have never been in support of the politicians on the
streets, not after the 15 years of their misrule and loots. They
have fooled the Nepali people enough. Having said that, the King
has not made the best use of what little support he had by default
when he took the power. People who were fed up of the politicians
would have supported him, but his actions have not gone on to repay
that faith. But he has made his proclamation and the ball is in
the SPA's hands. They have to take up the offer and, if they can,
show the King how to run the country with the people's support.
Will they be able to do it is yet another question. The King has
given up not just because of the SPA which has been going on with
protests for years now. That is why he addressed the people. The
SPA should take this lead and fulfill whatever agendas to make the
situation better. With their agreement with the Maoists, I'd like
to see them bring the Maoists into the mainstream politics fold.
Can they do it?? I wonder.
Le Huu Phuoc
Lakeville, USA
Opinion: Nepal is a really diverse and beautiful country in terms
of geography and ethnicity. But ever since the start of the Maoist
insurgency in 1996 and the Royal massacre by Crown Prince Dipendra
in 2001, the country continued on a gradual slide into uncertainty.
The problem lies in the lack of democratic institutions (government,
eduction, economics...) where the Nepalese people can exercise their
voices through peaceful means. This is exacerbated by the constant
power struggles between various factions within the country (Maoists
vs. Monarchy).Only with political stability can Nepal begin to flower,
economic prosperity will appear after political struggles cease.
It is a good sign to see the King's initial gesture towards democracy
but the main dialogue should be between the King and the Maoists.
As long as the Maoists refuse to participate in democracy, the King
can use this reason to hold on to power indefinitely and hence political
stability would remain a distant dream. So for the interests of
the Nepalese people, the King and the Maoists should give up their
political tug of war. The King should set democracy free and the
Maoists should be allowed to participate in the democratic process
by forming a political party. Of course, the King shall remain as
a symbolic head of state (much like the current monarchies of England,
Japan, and Thailand) but the political powers should lie in the
hands of a democratic government by choice of the Nepalese people.
Ashish
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion : The people of Nepal have made it clear that they won't
stop till monarchy is completely rooted out. I believe that our
democracy and freedom will be in threat as long as the King has
the control of RNA(Royal Nepal Army) and royal family is placed
above the law. But a question arises that who will lead the country
after the monarchy ends. Incase polls are held with Maoists as candidates,
Maoists certainly won't loose because of their influence outside
the valley. A tiger which has tasted human blood will not hunt a
more difficult prey.
Shreya Shrestha
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: I think that the King is doing good by giving up and giving
us our rights back but I don't really think its going to work as
I think he will change his mind at the last minute.
Rikesh
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: King Gyanendra is just trying to confuse the ministers
and raise disputes among them.
Name : Bickey
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion :I am neither in support of the King nor in support of the
protestors. I am in support of peace. Since the past few weeks,
protests are being held for democracy. And finally when the King
has handed over the power to the people, instead of celebrating,
the demonstrators are demanding for more. This is sheer foolishness
as there is nothing to be gained through these protests. Yes, democracy
gives us our freedom rights but it is important for us to direct
those rights towards improvement. The country is going through much
turmoil and we have to realize that the only solution is peace.
Bishek
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion : The King has declared democracy, just as the way it was
declared in the year 1990.It is high time for the politicians to
put an end to this turmoil. What the politicians fear is they might
fail in accomplishing their goals and the King might take the power
back again. Well, it is time for them to grow up and take this as
a challenge. Absolute democracy is impossible in Nepal. We should
not compare ourselves to nations like America as they are way ahead
of us. The King must hold some powers as there should be a regulator
to regulate these corrupt politicians.
Abhishek
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: Republic is the only answer to Nepal's current crisis with
an effective, dynamic and farsighted leader unlike corrupt politicians
that we have today in our country.
Gopal
London, UK
Opinion: Very unfair message! And untruthful King!!!!
Puchee
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion : Well, that speech doesn't make much sense. I think the
proper decisions have to be made soon as we have suffered a lot.
I think this is the height of human torture. There should be an
end to it. Please allow us to live peacefully.
B P Nepal
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: Now the ball is in the hands of the parties. Nepalese leaders
should choose the right prime minister without delay. Otherwise,
the crowd will go out of hand and many innocent lives will be killed
Dinesh
Pokhara, Nepal
Opinion: After the address of the speech of King Gyanendra to the
Nepalese, the problems of current situation is not solved because
it was incomplete and was only a formality. It did not even address
the Maoist problems. All of us know that we can not solve the problems
of Nepal isolating the Maoist. It has brought the long-terms problems.
So all the conscious people, let us once think about it. We have
to solve
the problem forever. At last, I want to give bundle of thanks to
all the artists, singer, Rj's, Dj's, and Vj's who are supporting
the movement. We are enthusiastic to continue the protest. Thanks!
C_ris
Lalitpur, Nepal
Opinion: I support Mr. Sugam Pokharel's opinions, "Tyrannical government can never succeed", History is repeating. The more the power is used upon the unarmed people, the stronger they will become. I partially disagree with Nirnaya. People did not come into violence by themselves. They were provoked by the government's desperate inhuman acts. I completely disagree with Sarah, she's totally blind.The democracy has to be practiced thoroughly for us to use it properly. It's not the democracy of the corrupt leaders it's the democracy of we people. We cannot practice democracy when we are being imprisoned by so called king. We need freedom for this so we are going to fight for it.
Kishor
Rajshahi, Bangladesh
Opinion : What a country needs is a diplomatic leader who, at times of troubles, can save the country. I think we have found that in the king.Why do we need democracy when we failed to respect it? Why do we ,people ,wander with the same political parties who are responsible for the present crises? I think we are making mistakes allowing the same corrupt bugs to lead the country once again. It was the greatness of the King that he believed in them once more and it is funny that they are rejecting the King's call. This will lead to a more complicated
state. The country will suffer much and the crisis will never be solved.
Killer Conra (George)
London, United Kingdom
Opinion: To Whom It May Concern,
This is not the real news from the King of Nepal. This message or address to the nation of King has come from India. Be careful, Nepalese!
Rai
Kowloon, Hong Kong
Opinion : What people in Nepal did for these past days is historic and it really proved a lot to the worst political situation. The announcement made by his majesty is one step to the goal we all dream for," total democracy". We should consider this as an achievement and let the King prove himself to be a man of words. The demonstrations should be controlled before it gets out of hand.
Name : Ashes
Kowloon, Hong Kong
Opinion : Once the King used to be 'respected'. Come on, we no more
respect the ones who give order to shoot his people at sight. So
first of all forget about the word 'respect' to address the murderer.
Now let's head to the topic. As we already had a burning example
on what the King did with Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba,
we can never trust him. He has time and again worked against it
the 1990 constituency article 35.Now, it is a time to act. With
our whole efforts, we need to throw this blood sucking legacy of
this dynasty. We know that nobody in this world is born with the
crown in their head, we all have to make our way. People in the
nooks and corner are made destitute. For example, a wild fire broke
in the north east of Nepal and the people there can not even get
help. We are economically, morally and tyrannically pushed to the
corner. The taxes we pay to the Government are used for the personal
expenses of these royals and their family friends. Agreed that the
Shah dynasty has done some great work during the wake of their dynasty
but they have failed to maintain their reputation. Instead they
are working against their reputation. Finally, I wish this New Year
B.C. 2063 brings Republic to our Country, good economy, bright future
and peace.
Jai Nepal.
Pramod Acharya
Hyderabad, India
Opinion : I think what the King has declared is just to lure the political parties for the post only for a short term. So what I think is that the King, the political forces and the Maoists do not think for the sake of the country, they only think for their benefits. If the King again thinks of raping the democracy, then he should be overthrown. If the political parties think of misusing their authorities again then we don't need them and if the Maoists again recurs the same activities then they should not be supported by the people.So what is required now is the coalition among the King, political parties and Maoists because Nepal is our country and we should solve the prevailing dilemma by ourselves before any external factors intervene.
Ricky
Pokhara, Nepal
Opinion: In my opinion, the King will not leave the place so easily,
Victor James
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: This is no time to ask who is wrong or how was the King's
declaration. It is time to seriously think where Nepal and Nepalese
are going towards. Will violence and suspicion help bring back PEACE?
No way! The so called leaders of political parties must get their
acts streamlined, otherwise we will have no future and will just
be another protectorate of INDIA. Is that what we want? Remember
Nepal has always been a sovereign country without any external rulers
ruling us. I do hope and pray that our so called leaders wont sell
us for mere power and wealth. Can we trust them?
Updated on Saturday, 22 April 2006
Rupak Shrestha
Island Life, Maldives
Opinion: I am in favor of the current protests. But even if we
get democracy, we may lack the right person in our political market.
Our political history is evidence. So there should still be one
powerful and active person like the King to observe the ongoing
activities. For the comments by Mr Manu (Japan), I would like to
say that now we may be 200 years behind Japan but we were also experiencing
democracy as Japan was. So it's better to support the full fledged
revolution. In my personal opinion, Nepal was not going backwards.
It was the other countries who were moving fast ahead while we were
stuck with the old political minds and concepts.
Samar
Katmandu, Nepal
Opinion: Firstly I would like to give my condolences to the families
of all those who died in this revolutionary movement. Staying away
from Nepal and talking big words for democracy and against the monarch
is not enough. At present I am against the protest and also against
the monarchy rule. Political leaders are staying in their homes
safely while innocent people are being butchered. These leaders
are supposed to be the ones moving in the front row of the protest.
However, their names will be written in our history for their bravery.
People of Nepal want to see a new morning in politics. Young generations
should totally run the government.
LEXvsSAUJAN
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: I think being a Republic Country is not the solution of
our problems. If democracy comes, there will be anarchy as people
will do and say whatever they want. This will only bring disagreement
between people which will create arguments and crisis. If the King
rules, he will rule the country alone and this will not create as
many crisis as democracy will. It is hard to admit it but most Nepali
people are narrow minded. So when someone tries to aim high, the
other brings his hopes down. No offence, but this movement is only
for the benefit of these political leaders.
Peacemaker
Poland
Opinion:It is right for the people to demonstrate but the people
should not forget the characters of our corrupt politicians, which
they had shown in the last 12 years. These politicians are responsible
for this critical situation. If the leaders once gain show their
old character, the people will not leave them without proper justice.
Bohora
Columbus, Ohio
Opinion: For reviving peace in a beautiful country like Nepal,
everyone should be responsible and conducive environment needs to
be created. At this moment, the King has to think what's going on
outside. First, we need to revive democracy and then think about
electing the right leaders.
Rabindra
Muscot, Oman
Opinion: I always have full belief in democracy. Presently, our
country is fighting for democracy. Democracy is not only the need,
we also need peace. There should be co operation between the political
parties and our King, otherwise there will bigger problems will
arise in our country. We should clearly understand the purpose of
this protest, if it is organized for the benefit of all Nepalese,
the government has to take steps accordingly.
Mahesh Panta
Kilgore, Texas, United States
Opinion: If we remain silent, the King will take our country towards
a more worst state. It has been proved that the King did not really
take the power for the sake of the country, but for his own advantage.
The raising in the palace's budget and trading of luxurious car
are very few examples. Nepal is the country where there are people
who can't even eat at night if they don't work hard during the day
and these poor people's so-called King has a huge budget for no
good. The so-called politicians are corrupted, too. Let the protest
lead to a positive outcome which would really change people's lives!
Brayes
Hong Kong
Opinion: Opinion might defer but the what we all Nepalese want is
human rights. No matter where we are, we are Nepalese and we want
out country to be a better place to live, work and settle in. The
political situation is worsening every next day. Residents are having
a tough time leading their lives. Industries and their workers are
just tangled in the middle of nowhere. Business people get no platform
to work and conduct their trade. Employees can hardly go to their
offices due to insurgency. Hence whatever aspect we look into, the
loser party is us, the general Nepalese. Concerned authorities should
think over the condition and democracy should be restored. Everyone
should have the liberty to live in their own for survival-the survival
that will lead to the development of this Himalayan Kingdom, Nepal.
I wish that once everything is restored, the new cabinet of ministers
make a good planning to avoid the mistakes they did in the past
and head towards for a beautiful world ahead.
Birendra Shrestha
Dallas, USA
Opinion: So far, the comments made by all friends are valid. However,
I strongly disagree to Sarah Gurung's opinions. Under no circumstance,
a monarchy could be a need of any country in this 21st century.
And as she has mentioned about the corruptions done by some leaders
in the past, I want to ask her what she would say about millions
and millions of rupees allocated to each of the royal family. How
about just utilizing those bulks of money to under-privileged people
of Nepal who are dying of hunger? I would say that King Birendra
would deserve even that, but this tyrant wants to make everything
belong to him. Come on, that's our tax money, let's just stop misutilizing
it. Of course, these demonstrations were going to be peaceful, unfortunately
they went violent because Nepal became a state of "NO LAW AND
ORDER" and the state started suppressing peaceful demonstrators.
And how about those security people, how long do they deserve to
be loyal towards a single tyrant?. Sometimes Kamal Thapa deploys
them somewhere to thwart masses, and other times in other innocent
places. This demonstration is nothing but just the anger on the
royal government because they can not do anything to people like
Pyarjung Thapa, Sahabir Thapa,Kamal Thapa and the King. So these
cops charge helpless people. Don't you think, if they could, they
would kill these culprits? Come on people, you guys should have
your own stand and do what's in the best interest of Nepal. So,
all NRNs(Non Residential Nepalese), let's give our ideological support
to the ongoing protest and hope democracy restores very soon.
The bloodshed of these martyrs will definitely curse the culprits
of the country who have brought our Shangri-La to this condition."Des
le Ragat maagey malai bali chadhaunu, rudinan meri aama u nepali
ki chori…"
Kiran
Hong Kong
Opinion: I support the protest. Peace will be soon declared in
our country.
Suman
Hangzhou, China
Opinion: I must be the hard-line reader to support this agitation
with lots of reasons. Being one of the Nepali youth and living abroad
trying to find a solution to the bizarre situation going on in Nepal
at least hundred times a day is like a helpless pregnant woman.
Shame on all of us, especially youths of Nepal that we have been
feeding the voracious monarch even in the 21st century! Nothing
shambles more than this. Yes, all these consequences are absolute
failures of political parties, but with time and consequences the
scenario has been more exposed that the King has been trying to
cash in on the failure of 15 years of governance which in itself
sounds paradoxical because Nepalese people have the right to ask
what the monarch did in 260+ years? How many times did the Nepalese
shed their blood because of this monarch? 104 years of Rana regime
or 30 years of panchyat; enough is enough. The King can not baffle
us more than this.We do realize the failure of 15 years of democracy
but we still do realize 15 years of democracy did a lot than 260+
years of monarch. I strongly believe the mass that has spewed out
in couple of weeks shows the same reality inspite of
non- humanitarian thwarting activities and trying to curb the protest
by imposing day an night curfew. The King has shown himself as the
greatest meddler and has been tinkering with the thoughts and beliefs
of every Nepali. Of course agitation of 14 days leads to different
sorts of crisis. Let's keep it beside as we are fighting the war
which the rest of the world fought in 19th centuries. Let's fight
for it.
Praveen Khanal
Singapore
Opinion: I strongly feel that all these nonsense things happening
in our country should be stopped as soon as possible. I don't understand
why people are far better at killing each other.More importantly
why these citizens of Nepal are fighting for democracy and what
do they think they are going to get from it? They should know that
all these politicians should be hanged and killed as they are the
main reasons for destroying the beautiful Nepal. Why can't people
understand this and why are they still supporting the same irresponsible
politicians?
Updated on 20 April, 2006
Sri
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Opinion: Democracy is vital for everyone but current activities
are wrong. These 'bandhs', strike and violence are ridiculous. I
agree with Nima, Sarah and Megh's opinions. The most important thing
at the moment is to bring peace in the country. The country is in
need of new faces to form a stable government with a will to serve
the nation in a loyal way. The entire past selfish and corrupted
political leaders have to be dragged down all the way without allowing
them to take part in government activities.
I will share with you a part of conversation with my friend who
went to Israel. When
I asked him, "WHY ISREAL?" He replied, "No jobs in
Nepal, Israel is having more jobs than their people, in Nepal 20
people die everyday due to internal Maoists conflicts, in Israel
5 peoples die everyday due to terrorism, so you have more chances
to stay alive here". If same activities continue, Nepal will
become worst than a hell to live. MAY GOD BUDDHA SHOW US PATH TO
PEACE AND PROSPERITY.
Mahesh
Dallas, USA
Opinion:I dont have much to say other than the words of Nirnaya
Shrestha (Singer).It
reflects my feelings. I feel the cause of the protest is good but
not the way we are doing it. We need to workout through peace and
talks. I want to quote a saying that I like the most," Dad,
how do soldiers killing each other solve the world's problems?"
- Calvin and Hobbes. SO JUST TELL ME HOW CAN WE SAY WE ARE FIGHTING
FOR PEACE? FIGHT IS NOT PEACE.
Vijaya
Sydney, Australia
Opinion: The opinion of Sarah Gurung is absolutely unacceptable
about the need of the King in Nepal. I ask Sarah whether or not
she understands the distinction between "aspects of country"
and "democracy" as she mentioned in her opinion, "Democracy"
is an essential aspect of every country in this 21st century..."
I hope she does not. Democracy is not one aspect of a country, it
is the holistic values and norms of human life. Thus democracy is
life, democracy is blood, democracy is air, democracy is water,
sex, food etc. Let me tell her one more thing. King Gyanendra is
responsible for all the bloodsheds currently happening in Nepal
and Nepali people must be justified. The corruptions done by few
leaders in the past is not the valid reason to kill hundreds of
innocent people and severely and barbarically attack innocent protestors.
King Gyanendra must be detested, penalized and bring into justice.
LOKTANTRA JINDABAD, JINDABAD
RAJTANTRA MURDABAD, MURDABAD
Aalok Sharma
New York, USA
Opinion: This is the people's protest against an authoritarian
middle age regime.
And more importantly this is the revolution of 21st century with
information and genuine awareness. So this has the momentum while
people are showing necessary
courage to make it a success. Hence this will be a success. There
is no doubt about it.
I am with the people.
LB Thapa
New York, USA
Opinion: Regarding the present situation, I am in the favor of
the political
parties' protest to get the complete democratic parliamentarian
system. Nobody likes
violence. Any kind of violent activity adversely hampers each Nepali
citizen. But who created this situation in the name of peace and
corruption less society? It's obvious – the present government.
In this 21st century, the King is capturing the whole power with
the help of the military. It is a shameful thing in the world, like
in the 15th and 16th century.
Nepalese have always been fighting and protesting
against the monarch to restore
the democracy while they actually needed to fight to eradicate poverty,
illiteracy etc. When will we fight for development infrastructures,
poverty and peaceful society?
The King is using military power to suppress everything. Therefore
this type of
protest is inevitable to establish kingless democratic system in
Nepal.
SCSU Huskies
Saint Cloud, USA
Opinion: Peace should be restored in NEPAL and all the people should
be united.
The situation and the condition is really worst and the people from
outside NEPAL now
think that Nepal is not a good place to go. Come on, people, we
got to bring peace in the
country and democracy has to be restored. Let us work on it. May
peace prevail all over Nepal.
Shahil
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: I am not in support of the on going protest because of
the political
leaders. The problems we are facing now are created due to these
leaders. Even if
democracy is restored, these leaders when in power will bring the
same old corruption
tradition. Instead of them new young leaders should come in the
forefront and new system should be established.
U. Gurung
Geneva, Switzerland
Opinion: Democracy is not the only need of 21st century but also
for peace and
progress of Nepal. As many have pointed out, we need to find younger
generation
leaders like Gagan Thapa and others to lead our country towards
peace, stability
and prosperity instead of Girija(Girija Prashad Koirala),Deuwa(Sher
Bahadur Deuwa) and other corrupted culprits. In fact, the so called
SPA leaders including Girija Babu should come to the streets to
face bullets and tear gas instead of sitting comfortably at home
waiting to take power when ordinary people are getting killed in
the streets. My deepest condolence to the departed martyr souls,
wishes for recovery of those injured and good luck to the on going
protest. I have donated my part and would like to raise more money
for the treatment of injured democratic fighters. I request all
you artists to contribute your share and make efforts since you
have more reach to the public, and it is our duty as a citizen of
our beloved country. Jai Nepal
Chandra
Sunsari, Nepal
Opinion: It is really a shameful act of our King to make our country
reach such a dreadful situation. His ego should be put down and
democracy should be declared.
Anish
Nanaimo, Canada
Opinion: The current public protests are absolutely right. Freedom
and
sovereignty inherent in people are absolute necessities and the
King has sacked it
away with no possibility of a clear future. The people have suffered
a lot from the
hands of Maoists, the Army, the Cops and from the authorities. It
is natural for
them to get frustrated and make a stand against it. As far as the
King and his desire to
resurrect the Panchayati System goes, it is absolutely wrong. It
will deliver a
severe blow to the country. As far as I can see, I see the King
making the stand for
himself, not for the sake of the country. So down with the Monarchy!
Democracy should be restored, else there's absolutely no future
for Nepal.
Anuj Poudel
New York, United States
Opinion: This present situation is the result of monocracy. I think
all the
political parties are being used by it, so they should go against
the monocracy. I
know that this is a hard situation for all the people but for the
better future they must
go for it. The lack of understanding between political parties has
created this problem and they should realize this . For the sake
of democracy, I beg all the people not to
follow others for the protest but for the nation they should know
the importance of it
and move for it. People should not stop working because we all know
that our
country's economic condition is not good and people are deprived
from the basic
needs. Let the people work. - Jai Nepal
Bishwa
Sydney, Australia
Opinion: Monarchy is the old fashion in 21st Century We do not
need King any more
and his family. We should get rid off him peacefully, if not with
weapons. We should be the Republic of Nepal. Living in Australia,
many people ask me, "Why don't you guys throw the King and
his son from their place?" And the time has come. Come on All
Nepalese, we all are with you.
Krishna Thapa Magar
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion:I think all the people should build a unity and move towards
the same destination. The destination should be the attainment of
peace and freedom. We are in the 21st century. We should not be
under any domination. So this is the time to raise our hands and
go for the democracy. Until the democracy comes, we all people should
fight against the government.
Updated on 19 April, 2006
Rina Basnet
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: The protests that are occuring now in Nepal can lead a
new way. Nepal's King and government is trying to lead the country
with the help of Guns and terrors which is absolutely wrong. Every
citizen has the right to live and express themselves freely. This
is not a Rana era and education has enlightened us. I have been
walking a long distance to reach my office. i cant quit my daily
activities because of 'bandas'. Walking 4 hours each day has created
a lots of problem for me.This is not only my problem.It is every
Nepali's problem.There is a shortage of almost everything.So till
when we are we going to suffer? Why is our king,the present ruler
not working for our welfare?
Rohit
Kualalumpur, Malaysia
Opinion: With the ongoing protest gaining momentum, is the history
of 1990 repeating itself?? I learned in school that Nepal stands
for Never Ending Peace And Love but now Nepal seems to be turning
into another Iraq.Well, I'm not being baised but The King has always
been like a parasite, leeching his people dry. Our rights have been
abused. The King's decision to seize the government came as a shocking
news and made the Nepalese worry with uncertanity about the King's
intention? Does he want to sacrifice our freedom and rights in exchange
for peace? The word Peace doesn't have any meaning without freedom.
The current protests going on is justified,
but the brutality and inhumane retaliation by the police is inexcusable.
The situation might get worst as more lives will eventually be lost
for freedom. The King knows the outcome, but the sad thing is that
he is keeping his hands tight and allowing the protest to go on.
The quicker the crisis resolves the more lives will be saved. So
it would be more appropriate if His majesty the King reannounce
the autocracy,giving the deserved freedom and rights back to the
Nepalese.
Freedom is what we need...JAI NEPAL.
Anuz Thapa
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: It's true that the political leaders are responsible for
all this but i think that they have realised their mistakes.Hence
it's time for all we Nepali people to protest this autocratic government.'Loktantra'
is the only way out of this crisis & that's what general people
want.A country develops only when people are free to speak their
mind. it only happens in a republic country.
Megh
Lalitpur, Nepal
Opinion: I strongly believe that what Suraj Singh Thakuri and Sarah
Gurung has said is the right way to handle our nation's current
situation.The same old corrupt political leaders are coming out
for protest without any geninue contestent to lead our nation. I
have full support for democracy but there should be a PERSON TO
LEAD OUR NATION into DEVELOPMENT. So if we get democracy, there
are unanswered questions like-
Who will lead our nation?
Who will be the PM of our nation?
Who is the right person to choose ?
Unless we find these answers this protest is
worthless and fruitless but infact it will lead our nation to deep
into the sea. It will be like Cambodia.There are so many people
who are educated and have a political vision.We should choose our
leaders wisely and carefully. Our political leaders have failed
for the last 14 years. We should'nt repeat the history again.
Updated on 17 April, 2006
SanR
Kathmandu, Nepal
Opinion: The public protest going on is fine but long term general
strikes will have negative effects on public life. However, trying
to restore democracy in the nation is a very good way of solving
the present problems. I think these problems should be sorted out
fully and in one go. These peaceful demonstrations must lead to
the solution of the problems otherwise our country may turn out
to be like most of the African nations.
Girish Khatiwada
(Singer)
St Louis, USA
Opinion: We should clearly understand the purpose of this protest.
If it is organized for the benefit of the majority of Nepalese,
it should be in the primary interest of the government to solve
this problem and give the people what they want. It is also a big
responsibility of the public to well recognize the truth and what's
good instead of running without purpose. Otherwise we may again
have to suffer like we have been for years for the blunder we committed
in the past by letting the wrong people run the government. This
time it is very important for all of us to be careful and alert.
United we can.
Saheb
Laltipur, Nepal
Opinion: It is good to have a protest but it shouldn't go for a
long time as it will negatively affect the lives of the general
masses.
Manu
Osaka, Japan
Opinion: The current protest might be right if they are non-violent.
But with violence, they have only welcomed terrors and poverty.
The main source of Nepal's economy is foreign currency and tourists
are very minimal in these few years. Curfews and 'Bandhs' has become
Nepal's identity. These kind of act discourages us (nepalese living
abroad) to come back to our land which was once a beautiful peace
country. People can protest working 24 hours as Suraj Singh Thakuri
says above. WHY STOP WORKING? Nepal a country which is said to be
100 years technologically back when compared to Japan, is now becoming
almost 200 years back with no water supply, no electricity, no cell
phones, no freedom. The situation in Nepal sucks.
Send us your opinion on King's
Royal Statement
The Respected King announced his royal speech
yesterday declaring that he would give back people's rights to them.
What do you think about his statements? Send in your opinions and
we will publish them in our website soon.
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