Even as the CPN-UML claims that the party’s Mechi-Mahakali Campaign was largely successful despite obstructions by the Madhes-based parties at some places, critics say the rally created social tension.

Concluding the party’s election campaign in Kanchanpur on Friday, the main opposition announced to hold a special programme in Province 2 soon. Five people were killed in a clash between police and the Madhesi Morcha supporters at the Maleth-based industrial area in Rajbiraj, which compelled the second largest party to suspend its campaign in the central Tarai.

The campaign helped strengthen the UML’s party organisation except in Province 2, observers say. The party is often criticised for its stance against the demands of the Madhesi forces.

UML Chair KP Sharma Oli, in his concluding remarks, lashed out at some critics and media for supporting violent activities by ignoring the serious attack on freedom of speech and expression.

Oli was referring to the tension in Rajbiraj as some media and critics held the UML responsible for the death of protesters.

Former PM Oli, however, said such activities would ultimately lead the nation towards renewed conflict, ethnic strife and social discord.

The main objectives of the campaign were to build pressure for implementation of the constitution, maintain stability by holding three tiers of elections on time and promoting social harmony. Chairman Oli claimed that the party was successful in its goals.

Political commentator Jhalak Subedi said the campaign renewed social tension in the country instead of creating harmony as they had wished. He said the UML’s hasty move sailed against its responsibility to lead the nation towards elections by taking the Madhesi forces on board. The party’s abrupt decision to induct 21 Madhesi leaders to its central committee was politically “cheating”, which would be exposed in due course of time.

Crisis if polls not held on time: Oli

MAHENDRANAGAR: CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli has said the country would plunge into a serious crisis if the elections of three tiers—local, provincial and federal—were not held by January next year.

Addressing a press meet held to conclude the party’s Mechi-Mahakali campaign in Kanchanpur on Friday, Oli said the party launched the rally in order to provide impetus for holding the three elections within the deadline set by the constitution. (PR)