Maoists shouldn't be included in govt sans arms management:US

Kathmandu, January 19 (UNI) US ambassador to Nepal James F Moriarty has said Maoists should not be inducted in the interim cabinet without completing the arms management in a credible manner.

Arms management process must be completed in an effective and transparent manner before involving the Maoists in the interim cabinet, he said speaking at a press meet at the American Centre today.

"No partner in a coalition government should expect to retain a private army. Destabilisation, mistrust, and insecurity invariably would result," he said.

US ambassador's remarks has come at a time the rebels are preparing to join the government after the formation of Interim Parliament and promulgation of the Interim Constitution.

"Democracy comes from the consent of the people, not the barrel of a gun. As the Maoists are now represented in a democratic Interim Legislature, it is time they finally and completely renounce violence, intimidation, and extortion. The Nepali people deserve nothing less." The seven parties alliance and the Maoists have agreed for the formation of the interim government within a few days time.

The new constitution has not given any role to the King as the monarchy has been suspended until the election to the constituent assembly to be held in June this year which decides the future of the monarchy in the Himalayan nation.

UNI