CPN (Maoist Centre) Deputy General Secretary Barsaman Pun has highlighted that political parties in Nepal interpret socialism differently, creating ambiguity about its actual form.
Addressing a seminar on “Nepalese-Specific Socialism and Alternative Economy” organized by the Nepal National Chamber of Commerce, Baglung, Pun noted that while all political parties consider socialism as their ultimate goal, its concrete shape remains unclear. He said, “The Nepali Congress has historically aimed for democratic socialism, whereas communist parties have interpreted it in terms of scientific socialism, Nepal-specific socialism, and other variants. Even new regional parties speak of socialism as a goal. However, since the actual structure of socialism is not visible, intellectual debate on this topic is necessary.”
The former finance minister also criticized the influence of broker-capitalists in Nepal, accusing them of controlling both the government and the economy. Pun emphasized the need to protect small and medium-sized entrepreneurs and prioritize the development of national capital, warning that unfettered liberal economic policies have favored a few individuals becoming billionaires within five years while many businesses have collapsed over the past two decades.
He called for an independent national economic development, advocating protection for small and medium enterprises, encouragement for national capitalists, and progressive tax policies. Pun further warned that monopolistic tendencies in a competitive economy have allowed regulatory agencies to be captured by bureaucratic and broker-capitalist interests, stressing the need for collective action to curb these practices and promote national capital.
On a political note, Pun criticized Prime Minister and CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli for revoking Vidya Devi Bhandari’s party membership, calling the decision shameful, especially as Bhandari had played a crucial role in Oli’s election as party chair.
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