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The democratic era of the 1990?s brought liberty, political rights, and the freedom of expression for the people of Nepal . But age-old socio-economic cleavages, social exclusion, regional inequalities, and poor governance undermined the historic achievements of 1990. After eight years of conflict between the Maoists and the State and 12,000 lost lives, weary and impoverished Nepalis want peace above all else. It is also clear that socio-economic and political reforms aimed at addressing significant flaws in the 1990 political compact will have to be pursued and adopted as the basis for reconciliation, and ultimate reconstruction of the nation and its frayed institutions.
But, a minimum common agenda among all the protagonists is vital for bringing about overdue political and socio-economic reforms in Nepal . Systematic reforms are unavoidable in order to stabilize the state and to make it devolutionary, just, and participatory. Such a system should be an ardent promoter and protector of personal liberty, free speech, and social justice, and must put a high value in the rule of law and economic freedom. Above all, the new Nepal must be a nation of full and equal opportunity for all its citizens including caste, ethnic and political minorities. A liberal democracy is the only viable political alternative for a variegated and heterogeneous country like Nepal .
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