President Bidya Devi Bhandari has remarked that the country entered into a new era of political stability and economic prosperity after successful holding of three levels of election.

In her first address to the joint session of Federal Parliament after being re-elected on March 13, President Bhandari on Wednesday said the elections to the federal and provincial parliaments and local assemblies had put an end to the protracted political transition and uncertainty.

President Bhandari, who was first elected the president after promulgation of the new constitution in 2015, thanked the people, government, parties, bureaucracy and other stakeholders for their support. 

The written statement endorsed by the Cabinet stressed maintaining fiscal discipline and good practices by all the organs of state, public offices, cooperatives and community.

Bhandari said during her 16-minute address that the country should be spared another conflict by resolving issues through Parliament. People’s representatives at all levels should fulfil their responsibilities, the President said.

Referring to various people’s movements and revolts, she noted that painful struggle, sacrifice and contribution of the people had put the country on the path of development, stability, prosperity and peace.

The statement handed to her by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in Parliament emphasised the constitutional, legal and human rights of the people. Bhandari also called for strengthening the judiciary. 

The head of state said the federal parliament reflects the geographical, cultural and ethnic diversity of the country. “Forty-one percent representation of women has made us proud,” the ceremonial president said.

Crux of talk

• Elections have institutionalised the political system after state restructuring

• There is the need for restrengthening judiciary

• 41 percent representation of women in elected bodies is a matter of pride