Nepal Maoists oppose extension of Constituent Assembly term
Opposition Maoists in Nepal have decided to oppose extension of the constituent assembly’s term till the ruling government makes way for a national government headed by them.
Opposition Maoists in Nepal have decided to oppose extension of the constituent assembly’s term till the ruling government makes way for a national government headed by them.
The politburo of UCPN (Maoist), Nepal’s largest opposition party, stated that the constitution drafting and peace process can’t get completed before the May 28 deadline till the present government is in power.
“Till this government lasts, there is no possibility of promulgating the new constitution or bringing the peace process to its logical end on time,” stated UCPN (M) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’.
The Maoist decision follows statements from leaders of ruling parties like Nepali Congress and CPN (UML) that it would be impossible to meet the May 28 deadline and the term of CA needs to be extended.
Targeting leaders of the ruling parties, Prachanda stated that it is still possible to adopt the new constitution within the deadline if there is political will and consensus among all parties.
Since UCPN (M) is the largest party in CA with over 200 members, it would be impossible for other parties to get the required two-third majority to extend the two-year term of the constituent assembly.
Stating that it would continue its efforts to overthrow the government, Prachanda added that his party would not bring in a no-confidence motion as it could result in horse-trading of CA members.
Commenting on the decision of the special committee for integration of 3000 former Maoists into security forces, the Maoist chief dared the government to go ahead with the process without his party’s support.
Nepal is lagging behind in the constitution drafting process as only three of the 11 thematic committees of the CA have submitted their final reports to the Constitutional Committee till date.
On Thursday, Chairman of ruling CPN (UML) Jhalanath Khanal stated that it would be impossible to meet the May 28 deadline and all parties should accept this reality instead of misleading the public.
Nepali Congress leaders also held a meeting with President Ram Baran Yadav on the possible scenario if the constitution is not drafted on time.
