HM King Gyanendra (file photo)

HM King Gyanendra (file photo)
With the debate on the fate of the kingship ongoing, Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala has said that the King should also be given space in democracy to prevent him from being frustrated.

Koirala, who has not addressed any public function because of ill health for some time, made it clear that he is in favour of giving space to all, including the king and fringe parties, so that there is no residual “desperation” and “frustration”.

Speaking at a tea party hosted by the Prime Minister to members of business communities at his residence Sunday evening, Koirala said, “If we do not give any space to the Maoists, they will be desperate. Similarly if we do not give any space to the king, he will be “frustrated”.

Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala (file photo)

Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala (file photo)
Koirala however did not elaborate about what kind of space to the King he was referring to.

Koirala’s remark came at a time his party had asked the interim constitution drafting committee to let the elections of the constituent assembly decide the fate of monarchy.

Koirala also said that differences have stalled the peace process, but added talks are very much on to settle such differences.

Commenting on the commitment expressed by the Indian side during his visit and which have not been fulfilled yet, Koirala said he would take up the matter with the Indian side soon.