At a time when the measures taken by the government against pro-democracy activists is facing criticism from different quarters, an influential US Senator, Patrick Leahy, has alleged that the palace announced a pre-emptive curfew and ban on political demonstrations recently to quell mounting public criticism of the government’s failed policies.

US Senator Patrick Leahy (File photo)

US Senator Patrick Leahy (File photo)

Delivering the speech, ‘A lost year for Democracy and Peace in Nepal’ in Senate on Wednesday, he said, “Since then hundreds pro-democracy activists including several party leaders have been imprisoned around the country.”

“Since King Gyanendra dissolved the multiparty government, curtailed civil liberties and imprisoned political leaders last year, the King also ignored appeals from the US, India and UK as well as the UN to negotiate with the leaders of political parties on a plan to restore democracy.”

He also urged for a far more creative and persuasive leadership in Nepal and abroad to prevent a tragic situation from becoming a disaster.

Lehay said such role is needed in Nepal including from the army as well as from the US, India, China and others to prevent a looming disaster.

“Since King Gyanendra dissolve the multiparty government, curtailed civil liberties and imprisoned political leaders last year ane the King also ignored appeals from the US, India and UK as well as the UN to negotiate with the leaders of political parties on a plan to restore democracy.”

“But nearly a year after the King Gyanendra justified his power grab as necessary to defeat the Maoists, they are stronger and peace is more elusive,’ he said.

In his speech in November, Leahy had asked the Royal Nepalese Army to side with the people.