Nepal's Shrinking Civic Space: Government Assertiveness and Military Influence
Original framing: “Nepal’s Army in spotlight as new government takes assertive turn” — The Hindu
The current government's assertive turn is part of a broader historical trend of authoritarianism in Nepal, dating back to the Rana regime in the 19th century. The Ranas used speed and delivery as a pretext to suppress dissent and consolidate power, setting a precedent for future regimes. This historical context is essential in understanding the current government's actions and the structural causes of its shift.
The government's assertive turn in Nepal is part of a broader trend of authoritarianism in the region, where governments are using speed and delivery as a pretext to undermine democratic institutions.
The consequences of this trend are far-reaching, threatening the very foundations of Nepal's democracy. The perspectives of marginalized groups, including the Madhesi community, are crucial in understanding the impact of the government's assertive turn on their lives and livelihoods. The government should prioritize the strengthening of democratic institutions, promote cross-cultural understanding, and address the structural causes of its assertive turn to prevent the erosion of democratic norms and the concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals.