UML leader sets terms for Maoist-led government in Nepal

Kathmandu, Apr 26 : The Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) has said that before extending their support to the Maoists, the political parties in Nepal want to see the dissolution of the YCL, a constitutional amendment for the formation and ouster of a government through a simple majority, and a commitment that they would strictly adhere to previous promises.

"Dissolution of the YCL, constitutional amendment for the formation and ouster of a government through a simple majority, and their commitment to strictly implement past commitments are pre-conditions for our support to the Maoists," said Ishwar Pokharel, Standing Committee member of the CPN-UML.

He claimed that if the provision for a two-thirds majority to oust or form a government is not amended, the Maoists could keep on ignoring others and imposing their authoritarian rule.

"We also want practical implementation of their past commitments, including return of looted property and rehabilitation of displaced people," Kantipur quoted Pokharel, as saying.

Pokharel said the UML would not join the government under a Maoist leadership.

Dina Nath Sharma, a senior Maoist leader, however, said it would not be sincere on the part of the parties to ignore the people's overwhelming support in the polls for the Maoists and set conditions for supporting a Maoist-led government.

"We are ready to return the property captured by our cadres during the conflict," said Sharma, adding, "But it should be noted that some of the leaders are unwilling to take back their property so that they can continue blaming us for capturing property."

He rejected the possibility of disbanding the YCL.

"There is no question of disbanding an organization in a democracy, but we can reform them through mutual understanding," said Sharma.

ANI