A Judicious Move

The recent tragedy in Nepal’s Royal palace is really grave - we are deeply shocked from it. While the Nepalese people want the real fact to come out, the country has to move further out of the crisis. At the current scenario, these two facts are inextricably linked, for it is seemingly difficult to move further unless the real fact behind the accident comes out to the public.

While the whole nation is bewildered, the decision taken by His Majesty King Gyanendra to form the high level public probe committee and to provide it a sweeping power can be regarded as a judicious and historical move. This has clearly shown His Majesty’s maturity in decision-making as well as commitment to the Nepalese people, and above all to democracy. But to my dismay, the media, particularly the foreign media, have fallen short to appreciate this move. We should appreciate this positive aspect rather than digging for speculations that may help aggravate the crisis further.

The decision of major political parties to extend their support to the new King and to co-operate with the probe committee is commendable. UML General-Secretary Madhav Nepal’s assurance to co-operate with the committee despite his stepping down from the committee is also appreciable. This is because it is very important that all Nepalese be united during these days of crisis for the sake of national unity and integrity. Let us hope that the official report of the probe committee comes out with true facts behind the unfortunate event.

Naba Raj Gurung
(Via e-mail) Christchurch, New Zealand