Addressing a function organized by Mahendra Narayan Nidhi Memorial Foundation to mark International Non-violence Day in the capital, Deuba argued that country had to witness current political deadlock due to the failure of the Maoists to abide by agreements reached in the past. [break]
Referring to the Maoists´ demand that NC should withdraw its prime ministerial candidacy to end the current political deadlock, Deuba said, “Nepali congress is ready to sacrifice anything if the Maoists create credible basis for concluding the peace process and promulgating the new constitution.”
Stating that the Maoists had failed to disband paramilitary structure of the Young Communist League, return seized properties in the past and manage their arms and armies, Deuba said, “If the Maoists create an environment of trust I will personally seek withdrawal of the party´s prime ministerial candidacy.”
He said Nepal could be transformed into the one of the most developed countries in next 20 years if the UCPN (Maoist) in its capacity of the largest party showed greater responsibility towards the nation. “This can happen only after establishing sustainable peace and political stability in the country,” he added.
During the function, Dr Girija Byas, Indian Congress lawmaker and chairperson of Indian National Women Commission, had delivered key note speech on late Mahatma Gandhi and his principles of non-violence to achieve political goals.
NC leaders Minendra Rijal and Pradip Giri, Barsha Man Pun of UCPN (Maoist), CPN-UML leader and Peace Minister Rakam Chemjong, Tribhuvan University Department Chief of Peace, Conflict and Development Hem Subedi and the Foundation´s chairman Bimalendra Nidhi underscored the relevance of Gandhian ideals to help conclude the ongoing peace process.
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