A member of the taskforce told Republica that the understanding will be formalized after major stakeholders of the peace process endorse it. “We have reached a conclusion that it is not necessary to create a separate force for Maoist combatants,” the source said.[break]
Though the taskforce was supposed to present its understanding before the top leaders before its meeting last Friday, it could not do so as party leaders and taskforce members remained busy in other political issues.
The Maoist representative in the taskforce, Janardan Sharma had been pushing his party´s position for a separate force to accommodate combatants living in 28 cantonments. After the Maoist position was rejected by representatives from other parties saying such a force would be loyal only to the Maoist party, Sharma softened the stance.
The taskforce, which was supposed to suggest a modality of integration and rehabilitation and a timeframe for managing the combatants much earlier, is yet to discuss other mandates given to it by the Special Committee.
“Unless we agree on modality of integration, it is useless to take up other issues like rehabilitation package, number of combatants to be integrated and norms for integration,” said the member.
When asked how long the taskforce will take to accomplish its goals, the member said it would depend on how soon the top leaders of the political parties can arrive at consensus in principle on modality, number and standard norms.
Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal has publicly committed to complete the peace process in 50 days and before May 28, the deadline for completing the peace process. The PM has only 55 days at hand to fulfil his commitment.
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