Maoists declare unilateral cease-fire for three months

Kathmandu, Apr 27 (UNI) Nepal's Maoist today said they are ready to join the mainstream and participate in the political process and hold talks with the government provided their three main demands are met.

Maoist leader Baburam Bhattarai told a private Nepali television channel here over telephone that they wanted the announcement of the date of elections of the Constituent Assembly, release of political prisoners and removal of terrorist tag against the Maoists.

The Maoists had declared a unilateral ceasefire which came into effect yesterday and announced lifting of blockade around Kathmandu and other urban centres.

Earlier Maoists chairman Prachanda said the People's Liberation Army won't launch any offensive action.

The seven parties have reiterated their commitment to the 12 point agreements and the roadmap of the parties to resolve the Maoists problem and establish complete democracy in the Himalayan nation.

King Gyanendra reinstated the House at the height of people's movement, in which tens of thousands of people came to the streets demanding the end of monarchy defying curfew.

The seven parties alliance has said that it would declare the election to the constituent assembly through the parliament.

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