JANAKPURDHAM: Newly-elected Speaker of the Madhes Provincial Assembly, Ram Ashish Yadav, has accused the federal government of using the provinces as a powerless “co-operative” entity.

Assuming office on Monday, Speaker Yadav said that instead of granting provinces the powers guaranteed by the constitution, the federal government has reduced them to units that merely monitor budget spending, similar to co-operative institutions.

He also expressed commitment to upholding good governance in the provincial assembly and running it in an effective, accountable, and dignified manner in line with democratic values and norms.

Speaker Yadav also said he would work to strengthen parliamentary practices, enhance the dignity of the legislature, and prioritize decisions based on due process. “The Speaker’s chair stands above political interests and bias,” he said. “It is my responsibility to make the House accountable by ensuring full compliance with the constitution, laws, and parliamentary rules.”

He further said he would focus on making thematic committees more active and effective in discussions on bills, amendments, and consensus-building processes.

Highlighting the need for the provincial assembly to exercise effective oversight over the executive, Speaker Yadav said that the legislature must play a stronger role in monitoring budget implementation, ensuring transparency in public spending, and improving the quality of service delivery.