Addressing a regional rally in Itahari on Saturday, UML leaders argued that the new constitution is possible within the deadline only if the Maoists conclude the peace process by August 12 as agreed. [break]
Addressing the rally, senior UML leader Madhav Kumar Nepal said the Maoist cantonments must be vacated for timely peace and constitution.
"Timely conclusion of the peace process and constitution drafting would depend on the Maoists´ intent. They should not confuse the people," he said. "The Maoists should give up their arms and armies to pave way for successful conclusion of the peace and constitution writing process.
Speaking on the occasion, UML Standing Committee member KP Sharma Oli argued that the peace and constitution is possible only under UML leadership as NC is plagued with parochial thinking and Maoists lack ideological clarity.
UML Vice-chairman Bamdev Gautam accused the Baburam Bhattarai-led government trying to appease international capitalists by inking various agreements, including the BIPPA with India.
"Madhesi leaders who have been threatening to secede every now and then cannot run the country," he said, adding: "The Maoist should also stop bargaining over the new constitution."
Addressing the rally, UML General Secretary Ishwar Pokharel said the Maoist combatants must meet standard norms of the Nepal Army to be eligible for integration.
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