Koirala to strike fresh deal with Maoists

Kathnmandu, Sep 26 (UNI) Nepal Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala will hold discussions with the CPN(M) Chairman Prachanda today, in an attempt to bring back the Maoists to the government fold for ensuring timely Constituent Assembly polls.

According to the Maoist leader C P Gajurel, the main focus of the meeting would be declaring the nation a republic before the polls and adopting a proportional electoral system, Kantipuronline reported.

Meanwhile, Mr Koirala reiterated his demand to hold the polls on time.

The polls to the Constituent Assembly were hanging in balance ever since the Maoists' withdrawal from the government. The rebels had announced that they would not allow the conduct of polls unless the Himalayan Nation is declared a republic by the interim Parliament.

Following the Maoists' resignation, top Nepal Congress leaders have come together to coerce them back into the government.

On Monday, Maoist Chairman Prachanda had hinted that his party could join the government, if a new cabinet is formed. He had ruled out any possibility of joining the current coalition government with the existing leadership.

UNI