Deputy Prime Minister Amik Sherchan

Deputy Prime Minister Amik Sherchan (File Photo)
Deputy Prime Minister Amik Sherchan has said that the government and Maoists should resolve the issues pertaining to political settlement and arms management at the same time to make the ongoing peace process a success.

Speaking at a program organized by Civil Society for Peace and Development in the Capital on Tuesday, Sherchan said, “A consolidated package that will address the issues of political settlement and arms management could be a solution.”

He termed those trying to disrupt peace negotiations as ‘regressive’ elements, adding, “Those who try to send the Maoists back to the jungle have a regressive mindset.”

Sherchan held both the government and the Maoists responsible for the impediments to the peace process.

“They are interpreting the agreements between them to suit their interests,” he charged.

Meanwhile, speaking at the same programme, Maoist leader Dina Nath Sharma demanded that the peace process should reach to a logical end prior to Dashain.

He also charged that the government does not want lasting peace as it was not keen on ending the conflict.

”Conspiracies are being hatched and Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala cannot rise above the issue of ceremonial monarchy,” he said.

“Laying down of arms is not a problem but if we give up arms now, a situation will arise when the political parties including us will again have to raise them,” he added.

He charged the government with sidelining the main issue of the proposed assembly elections and focusing on petty issues.

Parliamentarian of People’s Front Nepal, Lila Mani Pokharel, critisised US ambassador James F Moriarty for openly giving speeches like a politician and visiting army barracks in the country.

He further expressed concerns over the possibility of political parties being influenced by the international community.