Speaker Aryal: Learn Parliament, Not Your Phone

Nepal’s parliamentary leadership has called on members of the House of Representatives to treat their role as a full-time public responsibility rather than limiting it to attendance in parliamentary sittings. Opening a two-day orientation programme for lawmakers on Monday, Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal said public expectations now extend well beyond the chamber, with citizens closely watching how elected representatives conduct themselves, communicate and carry out their responsibilities.

The orientation began at the Federal Parliament Building in Singha Durbar with a particular focus on strengthening lawmakers’ understanding of parliamentary procedures, legislative work and institutional practices. As the current House includes many first-time members, Aryal said structured training is essential to improve the quality of parliamentary functioning and lawmaking.

Public office demands greater accountability

Aryal said that once elected, a lawmaker’s life shifts from private to public, making every decision and action subject to public scrutiny. He encouraged members to compete positively by producing better legislation, maintaining parliamentary dignity and presenting themselves effectively during debates.

He also stressed that Parliament can become more effective only when lawmakers combine study, practical experience and the use of modern technology in their legislative work.

The Speaker’s remarks reflected a broader concern that public confidence in democratic institutions depends not only on political decisions but also on how elected representatives perform their everyday responsibilities inside Parliament.

Concern over attendance and discipline

Aryal expressed dissatisfaction over the late arrival and low attendance of some lawmakers even during the orientation itself. He reminded participants that punctuality is a basic element of parliamentary culture and urged them to approach such programmes with the same seriousness expected during formal parliamentary business.

He also advised members to avoid spending excessive time on mobile phones and to refrain from unnecessary conversations during training sessions, saying the programme had been organised with significant public resources and should result in practical learning rather than symbolic participation.

Aryal added that voters would ultimately judge whether the knowledge gained through the orientation translates into better conduct and stronger performance during House proceedings.

Orientation aimed at improving legislative capacity

Federal Parliament Secretary-General Padya Prasad Pandey said the programme had been designed to deepen lawmakers’ understanding of parliamentary procedures, legislative processes and institutional practices so they can carry out their constitutional responsibilities more effectively.

• The two-day orientation programme began on Monday at the Federal Parliament Building in Singha Durbar.
• The training is intended to strengthen lawmakers’ knowledge of parliamentary procedure, legislative drafting and parliamentary practice.