Major parties and Front agree on resuming dialogue
Kathmandu, Feb 1: The three major political parties and the United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF) have agreed on resuming the dialogue 11 days after an unsuccessful bid at consensus between the senior leaders.
The High Level Political Coordination Committee headed by UCPN (Maoist) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal in consultation with the Prime Minister and Nepali Congress President took the initiative to invite the Front for dialogue. The dialogue will resume from the ‘point where it had stalled’ on January 21.
The major parties have proposed to form a separate political committee for settling the contentious issue of provincial borders as inclusive proportional participation and delimiting electoral constituencies on basis of population size and geography among the 11 – point demand put forth by the Front has been addressed through the Nepal Constitution’s 1st amendment – which took place on January 22.
The taskforce meeting of the two sides will take place in a few days after Nepali Congress leader Mahesh Acharya and Tarai-Madhes Loktantrik Party Vice Chairman Hridayesh Tripathi – members of the taskforce – return to the capital city. “I have taken the initiative in resuming the dialogue after consultation with the PM and the NC President,” said Dahal, adding, “We have decided on reaching a conclusion after holding meetings in taskforce and senior leaders’ level.”
Deputy Prime Minister and CPN (UML) Vice Chairman Bhim Bahadur Rawal, who represents his party in the taskforce, said the Front has been urged to end the blockade and create a positive environment.
TMLP Chairman Mahantha Thakur said the Front was prepared to resume dialogue while stressing on the need for the major parties to present themselves more seriously.
Sadbhawana Party co-Chair Laxman Lal Karna said the government must end suppression, treat the injured cadres and form a judicial probe commission in order to help lift the blockade.