Nepal bursts into jubilation as SPA gets ready to take over

Kathmandu, Apr 27 (UNI) Riding on the crest of a popular upsurge, leaders of the seven-party alliance pledged adherence to democracy and peace besides resolution of the Maoist problem while addressing a massive rally here today, a day ahead of the formal takeover of the reins of the government in Nepal.

They said they will continue their efforts for the restoration of democracy.

Prominent speakers at the rally included Sher Bahadur Deuba of the Nepali Congress ( Democratic), Amik Sher Chand of the People's Front and Nepal Sadhbanva Party's Bharat Bimal Yadav.

The crowd cheered and applauded all speakers, despite being a warm day today.

However, people raised slogans for immediate institution of a constituent assembly.

CPN-UML general secretary Madhav Kumar Nepal asserted in his speech that if the announcement of a constituent assembly was not made when Parliament reconvenes tomorrow, he would resign from the House and come back to the street to resume the agitation.

He also assured people that Prime Minister-designate Girija Prasad Koirala will take oath of office in public.

Communist party of India leader Atul Kumar Anjan, who also addressed the rally, complimented the people of Nepal for choosing a new democratic road for their country.

''People's power is so strong that no power on earth can repress it and the success of people's movement in Nepal is proof of this,'' Mr Anjan said.

The CPI leader also congratulated all the allies of the SPA and various civil society organisations including, the Bar Association, media groups and women organisations for making the movement a success.

The crowd, including women and children, spilled out on streets covering entire Ratna Path and other contiguous areas.

An eye-catching banner warned Mr Koirala to take power in the name of people and not the King.

The rally wore a festive look with folk singers and other artistes performing at the Khula Manch (Auditorium).

Speakers from various social and professional groups including journalists union, Bar association and women right groups also addressed the rally.

UNI VD AK-YA RP PM1746