Eight political parties in Nepal have announced the formation of a new alliance called the 'Progressive Front,' pledging to push for constitutional amendments, strengthen federalism and ensure social justice and inclusive democracy.
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The alliance was announced at a programme in Kathmandu on Saturday, bringing together Janata Samajbadi Party Nepal, Janamat Party, Aam Janata Party, Nagarik Unmukti Party, Pragatisheel Loktantrik Party, Nepal Sanghiya Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Ekta Party Nepal and Khumbuwan Rashtriya Morcha.
According to a joint statement, the front aims to "unite democratic and progressive forces committed to protecting national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity." It said it would work to end the centralisation of state power and authoritarian tendencies while building a just society based on freedom, equality, democratic republicanism and federalism.
The alliance has identified constitutional amendment as a key priority, arguing that structural flaws and ambiguities in the current constitution have hindered the effective implementation of federalism. It has called for a revision or rewrite of the constitution to address these challenges.
The front has promised to prioritise the uplift of marginalised communities, including Madhesi, indigenous nationalities, Tharu, Dalit, women, Muslims and backward classes. It has demanded representation in parliament and provincial assemblies based on equal population, along with separate reserved constituencies for women and Dalit communities.
On governance, the front has pledged transparent, accountable and corruption-free administration, along with quality education, healthcare and dignified employment. Its economic strategy focuses on agricultural modernisation, hydropower, tourism and industrialisation to achieve sustainable growth.
The alliance also outlined a foreign policy based on equality and mutual respect with neighbouring and other countries, prioritising Nepal's sovereignty and national interest.
The formation of the front comes amid ongoing efforts among Madhesh-based and other fringe parties to forge political collaboration, and follows recent communal clashes in Koshi and Madhes provinces.
Leaders who signed the joint statement include Upendra Yadav (JSP), CK Raut (Janamat), Prabhu Sah (AJP), Resham Chaudhari (NUPN), Santosh Pariyar (PLP), Rijwan Ansari (NSSP), Harinandan K. Ranjan (BSPN) and Ram Kumar Rai (KRM).
