Take peace process forward to end deadlock: Madhav Nepal

Kathmandu, Oct 18 (UNI) The Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist), (CPN-UML) General Secretary Madhav Kumar Nepal said today that there was no alternative other than to take the peace process forward to end the current political deadlock with the CPN-Maoists.

Nepal urged the Maoists to hold political discussions and refrain from street protests while speaking at a tea reception organized by UML Kathmandu district, reported Kantipur online.

''The Maoists are left with only one option to take the peace process forward and to move ahead on the path of a consensus,'' said Nepal.

''It is necessary on the part of the Maoists to intensify discussions among the seven-party alliance and not to resort to street protests,'' added the UML General Secretry.

He reiterated the strength of the seven party alliance in tackling any political deadlock in the country but stated that any breakup of the alliance would further lead towards political crisis.

The Maoists left the interim government on 18 September 2007, on the issue of non-fulfilment of their demands (which included declaration of a republic before the elections). They stated they would launch street protests in favour of a republic and to ensure the elections will be held, but keep to the ceasefire. The Prime Minister Girija Prasad Kirala is of the view that declaring a republic through the interim parliament would lack legitimacy.

UNI