Including the excluded? The political economy of the constituency development fund in post-war Nepal

Abstract

Post-war political transitions may open up opportunities to advance the political participation of marginalised and disadvantaged groups. In Nepal, after a decade-long armed conflict, representation of disadvantaged groups in parliament has increased significantly through a parallel mixed, first-past-the-post (FPTP) and proportional (PR), electoral system. However, economic and political subordination of marginalised groups in the parliament has continued. This article analyses one of the mechanisms through which this has occurred, showing how the allocation of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) had a negative impact on political inclusion. The exclusive provision of the CDF to FPTP MPs, mostly men from privileged groups, allowed them to strengthen their patronage networks. Voters saw FPTP MPs as delivering development, while considering PR MPs weak. As a result, PR MPs, which account for the vast majority of MPs from disadvantaged groups, had limited opportunities to strengthen their position within political parties. Finally, the CDF hindered the implementation of the new federal system and endorsed a centralised mentality, with a negative impact on the agenda for inclusion.