This is the first time since the Maoists joined the peace process that the PLA is transferring its brigade commanders.
The PLA took the transfer decision during the PLA general staff meeting that concluded in Kathmandu on Monday. "We have decided to transfer the brigade commanders, something due for the last three years," PLA deputy commander Baldev told myrepublica.com. "Transfer of the brigade commanders is a normal process in the Maoist army, or in any army for that matter," said Baldev, who was appointed PLA spokesperson by the PLA general staff meeting Sunday.
According to him, the PLA had planned to move around all the units but had to ditch the plan due to a resource crunch. In the next phase, the PLA plans to transfer its 126 vice-brigade commanders. Just a few months ago, the PLA had transferred seven divisional commanders.
Six vice- brigade commanders would be promoted to the posts of brigade commanders which have remained vacant following promotion of six brigade commanders to deputy division commander.
The general staff meeting also passed "army regulations" to regulate PLA activities. Prior to this there were no clear-cut, written rules to control the activities of the combatants.
The general staff meeting also discussed the role the PLA should play in view of activization of the Special Committee to supervise, integrate and rehabilitate the Maoist Army. The commanders had demanded that the Special Committee should immediately work out its plan on integration and rehabilitation and on how to retain its chain of command and control. The PLA is coming directly under the Special Committee.
The PLA has decided to train disqualified combatants to facilitate their discharge from the cantonments. PLA commanders have been demanding that the government provide them cash relief for their discharge.
Related story
President receives annual report of Brigade of Gurkhas
