FSFN to join govt only after written deal on constitution amendment

KATHMANDU, March 25: Federal Socialist Forum Nepal (FSFN) leaders insist that the party will join the government only after a written agreement on constitution amendment is made.

FSFN is delaying to join the government since Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli is hesitating to sign the draft agreement on constitution amendment reached between the government and the Madhesi party, claimed FSFN leaders.

“The draft agreement was prepared at the presence of Prime Minister Oli, CPN (Maoist Center) Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ and FSFN Chair Upendra Yadav. But, we are surprised why the Prime Minister is reluctant to sing the deal,” said an FSFN leaders of the draft preparation committee.

“We expect the deal will be finalized before the Prime Minister embarks on his state visit to India,” he added.

Prime Minister Oli is scheduled to make his first overseas trip, since assuming office in February, to India on April 6.

FSFN has put forth the condition of amendment of constitution as a prerequisite to join the government. It has also demanded amendment in article 274 of the constitution in a way that would allow redrawing of federal boundaries and formation of federal commission to resolve all disputes related to federal boundaries in future.

But, Prime Minister Oli and Maoist Center Chair Dahal have given full assurance to revising constitution instead of signing the written agreement. The ruling parties, who are in verge of unification very soon, have maintained that the constitution will be revised based on ‘necessity’ and ‘justification’.

In spite of reluctance to inking deal on the agreement draft with FSFN, the ruling parties are desperate to bring FSFN abroad the government since partnering with FSFN will allow the left alliance government to collect strong political support in the House. Likewise, the collation pact can help UML restore trust of Madhesi people who remain hesitant of the ruling party due to its stance on constitution amendment.

FSFN, if becomes ready to participate in the government, is likely to get three ministries in Oli’s cabinet.