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Nepal’s Politics: The Lack of Ideology and Challenges to Long-Term Stability

The absence of political ideology and principles in Nepal has posed significant challenges to long-term political stability and social transformation. Established parties have struggled to implement their ideological principles practically, while emerging political forces have yet to develop a clear ideological foundation. Only when these new political entities establish distinct ideological accountability and cultivate strong institutional culture can Nepali politics become sustainable.

Pradeep Giri often engaged in discussions about political ideology and philosophy. He possessed the ability to captivate audiences wherever he spoke. While some listened attentively, others simply heard without absorbing his message. Currently, one leader who has advanced Giri’s philosophical approach is Ghanshyam Bhusal. Bhusal believes that politics should fundamentally be guided by principles. Firm in the conviction that politics must be rooted in ideology, he did not receive favorable recognition within his former party, the CPN-UML.

For decades, the Nepali people have participated in various political movements, sacrificing and bringing about changes in governance, drafting constitutions, abolishing the monarchy, and establishing a republic. Yet, despite these numerous transformations, expected improvements in everyday life have remained elusive, raising a crucial question: why? The inability to answer this leads to an even more serious question—does ideology fill stomachs? This very despair has fueled widespread disenchantment with traditional political parties, while simultaneously sparking extraordinary interest in new political forces.