December 26, 2001

KATHMANDU: In a message to army men broadcast over Radio Nepal Tuesday King Gyanendra said the army will succeed in its present mission to quell an insurgency and restore peace. The message was read over the state owned radio by Army Chief Gen. Prajawalla SJB Rana.

“Be successful in your noble effort to maintain national security and unity for the people’s welfare,” the King said. “You have once again the responsibility for giving the people peace and security and maintain tranquility in the country,” he said. ” All sections of society admire the success you have gained in such a short period with courage and professionalism,” he added. “We are concerned and interested that you without consideration for your lives are carrying out your responsibilities successfully,” he said.

“We are confident that  you will succeed in restoring peace by winning the hearts of the people,” the King said in his first public message to the soldiers. “Soldiers who have achieved martyrdom will forever be remembered in the hearts and minds of the people,” he said. At least 28 soldiers have died and more that two dozen injured when Maoists resumed hostilities November 23 after failed peace talks to end a bloody six year insurgency. The King also prayed for the eternal peace for the dead.