Kathmandu. Speaker Devraj Ghimire has said the role of former lawmakers would be important to spread a positive message among the people about democracy.

Speaking at a programme organised by the Forum of Former Parliamentarians here today on the occasion of the 67th Parliament Day, he said the contribution of former lawmakers would be significant as efforts were being made to increase people’s disenchantment towards democracy.

He stressed the need for all democrats, including former lawmakers, to be alert as efforts were being made to challenge the parliamentary democratic system. He pointed out the need for a think tank to discuss ways to make parliament effective.

Stating that the federal civil service bill and transitional justice law, which have been pending for 10 years, have moved ahead, he expressed the belief that the ongoing session itself would finalize it. According to him, the practice of holding discussions on the principles and priorities of the budget three months ago has not been effective since last year.

Stating that the Parliament passes the Finance Bill every year, Speaker Ghimire said that there should be a debate on such a process as well. He said that most of the time of the annual session is focused on the finance bill, so such discussion should be held in such forums to reach a conclusion on whether such discussion is necessary or not.