Gyawali Warns That Social Media Control Is Pushing Society Towards Self-Censorship

Pradip Gyawali, leader of the CPN-UML, has emphasized that constitutional amendments should not undermine the fundamental pillars of the republic and democracy. He stressed the need for caution in the amendment process, given the current political power balance is unfavorable to democratic and leftist forces. Gyawali expressed concern over efforts to weaken independent media and warned that the country is moving toward elected authoritarianism. (April 9, Kathmandu)

Speaking at a seminar organized by the National People’s Front on the topic “Constitutional Amendment, Protection of the Republic, and Nationalism,” Gyawali pointed out that the current political power distribution does not favor democratic and leftist factions. He also noted the weakening of the main parties responsible for constitution-building in the House of Representatives. “The three major parties that crafted the constitution have only 79 representatives combined. In such a situation, the capacity to block adverse constitutional amendments is limited. Attempts are being made to undermine independent media, and controlling social media is pushing society towards self-censorship,” Gyawali stated.

Commenting on the government’s recent approach, Gyawali raised concerns that the country may be heading toward elected dictatorship. He accused the government of undermining fundamental rights, trade union freedoms, and press independence. On the debate over a directly elected executive system, Gyawali argued that such an arrangement would be harmful for a country like Nepal, given its geopolitical realities. “I have heard that the Prime Minister has expressed intention to learn from Hitler’s ‘administrative art’ and to shape society toward a single way of thinking. Holding such views in a diverse and pluralistic society is highly problematic,” Gyawali clarified.