Hours after the King’s announcement to reinstate the dissolved House of the Representatives as per the demand of the seven political parties, the United States (US) has urged the King to step aside and take on a more ceremonial role in the kingdom’s governance.
“The US salutes the people of Nepal’s courage and resilience in their struggle for democracy. The King’s speech in Kathmandu calls for reinstatement of Parliament. We believe that he should now hand power over to the parties and assume a ceremonial role in his country’s governance,” the US State Department said last night.
King Gyanendra took absolute power after sacking the government in February last year saying it had failed to tackle the decade long Maoist insurgency.
In a statement, Deputy Spokesman Adam Ereli urged Nepal’s political parties to step up to their responsibilities and cooperate “to turn people’s demands for democracy and good governance into reality”. “Through these steps, stability, peace and democracy can be restored in Nepal. The United States and the international community stand ready to help,” he added.
On the Maoist insurgency, Ereli said, “The Maoists must end their violent attacks and join a peaceful political process.”
At least 15 people were killed and hundreds injured during 19-day long general strike called by the seven political parties demanding restoration of complete democracy in the country.
“We regret the loss of life and injuries that occurred in the recent demonstrations and call upon Nepal’s security forces to show the utmost restraint in responding, should any further demonstrations occur,” Ereli added. nepalnews.com pb Apr 25 06