Maoists lift blockades, look for Parliament's move in Nepal

Kathmandu, Apr 26 (UNI) Nepal's maoists today announced lifting of blockades in the Capital and other urban areas of the country, following Prime Minister-designate Girija Prasad Koirala's assurance to hold elections for constituent assembly to frame a new constitution.

''In view of veteran politician and designate Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala's appeal to us and his commitment for constituent assembly, we are lifting the blockade of Kathmandu and other places till Friday, when the revived Parliament holds its first sitting,'' a statement issued by the maoist leader Prachanda said.

However, he warned if in the sitting of the Parliament on Friday an announcement for unconditional elections to the constituent assembly was not made, the blockades would be reimposed.

''The absolute monarchy, which is in its death throes has used it (revival of Parliament) as its last defence'' against people's pressure for full-fledged democracy, he said.

''If this happens, the entire history from 1950 to the present will have to be relived'', Mr Prachanda added.

Reports from outskirts of the Capital and other districts said that there was no evidence of maoists' blockades today.

Earlier, in a statement issued here today, Mr Koirala said, ''We have to take the decision on the election of constituent assembly in the parliament in accordance with the road map of the seven parties (political) and the 12-point agreement with the maoists.'' For this, there is need of creating conducive environment, the Nepali Congress president added.

The seven parties and the Maoists had agreed to end the autocratic rule of King Gyanendra and hold the election of the constituent assembly to write a new constitution after forming an all party government, including maoists, in the Himalayan kingdom.

The seven parties wanted the reinstatment of the House while the maoists wanted the formation of an all party parallel government and declare the election of constituent assembly before the House was reinstated by the King on Monday.

UNI VD VJ PC1611