G P Koirala nominated as Prime Minister of Nepal

Kathmandu, Apr 25: The seven-party alliance in Nepal today unanimously nominated Mr Girija Prasad Koirala for the post of Prime Minister.

A meeting of the alliance, which was spearheading the agitation for restoration of democracy in Nepal, took the decision in a meeting this morning following King Gyanendra's announcement to reinstate the dissolved Parliament last night. The alliance had already called off its 19-day stir in the wake of the development.

Mr Koirala's name was proposed by CPN-UML leader Madhav Kumar Nepal and unanimously passed at the meeting.

The meeting also decided that the revived Parliament would move a resolution for the Constituent Assembly as soon as it reconvenes.

Emerging out of the meeting, former Prime Minister and Nepali Congress (Democratic) leader Sher Bahadur Deuba told UNI that the King's proclamation was a victory for the people and he had finally acknowledged that sovereignty lay in the people. To a question on whether the Maoists would go along with the agreement, he expressed the hope and said success of the seven -party agitation would seek to convince them that peaceful means were better to attain political goals.

To a question on whether political leaders could succeed in leading the people, he said,'' People wanted peace and prosperity and political leaders would strive not to betray their aspirations.'' On the strident call by protestors outside Mr Koirala's residence for strict action against the King and Home Minister Kamal Thapa, Mr Deuba parrying the question said the rule of law would prevail.

Interestingly, protestors are also chanting slogans and calling on the political leaders not to forget the goal of Constituent assembly once Parliament reconvenes.

The meeting also decided that requisite compensation will be given to the kin of those killed or injured in the 19-day agitation.

Sixteen people were killed and about 5000 injured.

UNI

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