Aug 08, Kathmandu - Seven major Nepali political parties have united to form the 'Progressive Front,' prioritizing constitutional amendments, reinforcing federalism, social justice, and inclusive democracy.

The parties—Jana Samajbadi Party (JSP) Nepal, Janamat Party, Aam Janata Party, Nagarik Unmukti Party, Pragatisheel Loktantrik Party, Nepal Federal Socialist Party, Bahunjan Ekata Party Nepal, and Khambuwaan National Front—jointly released a comprehensive concept paper outlining their vision and objectives.

The front aims to unite democratic and progressive forces committed to safeguarding sovereignty, national independence, and territorial integrity. It seeks to end centralized authority and authoritarian tendencies, promoting a society based on liberty, equality, democratic republic, and justice rooted in federalism.

The document emphasizes respect for Nepal’s multicultural, multilingual, and multiethnic society, prioritizing upliftment of marginalized communities and eradicating all forms of inequality and discrimination. It advocates for strengthening federal democratic governance, ensuring proportional representation for marginalized groups—including Madhesis, indigenous peoples, Tharus, Dalits, women, Muslims, and backward communities—across all levels of government.

Transparency, accountability, anti-corruption measures, quality education, healthcare, and dignified employment are highlighted as national priorities. The front envisions a society where diversity is celebrated as a national strength, and aims to end injustices faced by marginalized groups, recognizing their cultural and ethnic identities.

To effectively implement federalism, the front plans to empower local bodies with regional authority and resources, adopting the principles of autonomous governance within provinces and shared governance at the national level. It calls for proportional representation in Parliament and Provincial Assemblies and the reservation of separate constituencies for women and Dalit communities.

Addressing challenges in federal implementation caused by constitutional ambiguities, the front advocates for constitutional amendments or rewriting to rectify structural flaws. It emphasizes the need for political stability, equitable representation, provincial restructuring, and judicial reforms through constitutional revisions.

The front also underscores economic development through modernization of agriculture, hydropower, tourism, and industry, alongside strategies to combat youth unemployment via national employment programs, skill development, and creating dignified jobs domestically. Conservation of natural resources and climate change adaptation are also prioritized.

Solutions for landless and homeless populations will adopt scientific and humane approaches, including proper identification of genuine landless citizens for long-term resolution. On foreign policy, the front commits to safeguarding Nepal’s sovereignty and national interests, fostering equal and respectful relations with neighboring countries and the international community.

Leadership within the front will be chosen through consensus or rotation if necessary, with decision-making aiming for unanimity and, when not possible, proceeding democratically. Member parties are expected to adhere to a shared minimum program and discipline as outlined in the concept document.

This alliance marks a pivotal step toward political unity aimed at building a just, inclusive, and federal Nepal.