The President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, has made a strategic appeal for the selection of leadership through consensus in the upcoming elections. Speaking on the eve of the federation's polls, Dhakal emphasized that internal fragmentation caused by panel-based competition would significantly weaken the private sector's bargaining power. His call for unity comes at a critical juncture as Nepal transitions toward a stable government with a two-thirds majority, a development Dhakal believes necessitates a singular, cohesive voice from the business community to ensure their concerns are prioritized by the state.
Drawing from his personal electoral history, Dhakal offered a sobering reality check to aspiring candidates regarding the unpredictable nature of voting commitments. He recalled a past instance where, despite seemingly overwhelming support from 78 representatives at a gathering, the final tally resulted in a narrow loss by a single vote. He used this anecdote to urge the Senior Vice President and other contenders to set aside personal egos and utilize the expanded positions provided by the newly amended statute to reach a mutual understanding.
Beyond leadership structure, the President highlighted that the revised FNCCI constitution has significantly broadened the representation and authority of district and municipal chambers. Dhakal’s central thesis remains that the federation's relevance and institutional strength depend on avoiding the divisive outcomes seen in recent parliamentary elections. He concluded by urging former presidents and current officials to facilitate a collaborative environment, ensuring that the private sector remains a formidable entity capable of influencing national policy.
