A taskforce formed by the government to prepare a concept paper on amendment of constitution held a meeting with experts on Monday.
The taskforce coordinated by Ashim Shah, political advisor to the Prime Minister, discussed with legal and constitutional experts at the PM's Office, Singha Durbar.
Taskforce member secretary Leeladhar Subedi made a presentation on the issues warranting amendment to constitution such as form of governance, electoral system and franchise to Nepalis living abroad.
Other issues featured for discussion were provision of directly elected president, appointment of judges based on competition, end of corruption in judiciary, effectiveness of federalism, reform in management, role of Chairman and Vice Chairman of National Assembly, accountability of local levels, non-political local government, fair and capable judiciary, restructuring of judicial council, number of constitutional bodies and appointments there.
In the discussion, constitutional expert Purna Man Shakya suggested taking into account the foundational structure of the constitution while initiating amendment to it.
Constitutional expert Dr Bipin Adhikari viewed the system as fully parliamentary. The Prime Minister should be given authority to dissolve Parliament.
Another constitutional expert and former lawmaker Radheshyam Adhikari underlined the need of thorough discussions before amending the constitution because it is the major document, establishing links between citizens and government.
Senior advocate Mira Dhungana said further clarity is needed on women rights.
Senior advocate Tikaram Bhattarai argued that the amendment taskforce itself was not recognized by constitution, so it would be better to be a federal parliament member to coordinate the taskforce. According to senior advocate Shambhu Thapa, although the issues in the discussion were relevant, these required endorsement by the Parliament.
Political meddling should be ended in the judiciary in view of advocate Govind Sharma.
Taskforce coordinator Shah thanked the experts and said that the suggestions given by them would be incorporated in the amendment paper.
