EU asks Maoists to walk the talk; wants to see interim govt formed soon
A delegation of European Parliament has asked the Maoists to walk the talk so that the interim government could be formed soon and date for elections fixed.
Addressing a press meet in the capital on Friday, Neena Gill, head of the 5-member working group of European Parliament's Delegation for Relations with South Asia, said, "Without interim government, there will be no solid basis to go ahead with election."
She, however, added that there has to be clear commitment from all parties who want to be a part of the government to stop violence and intimidation.
"Our impression is that there is not sufficient amount of self-discipline among followers of some parties. We are disappointed to note that extortion, abductions and violence continues," she said. Referring to recent agitation by business community, she said, "You cannot have a situation where business and industries are held to ransom for no particular reason."
On the issue of Constituent Assembly elections, Gill said that it can still be held by mid-June if all parties demonstrate their will to do so. "There is a huge amount of goodwill and support (from international community to Nepal). It is possible and feasible to hold polls in next two and a half months. But it really boils down to the role of key players here," she said. Gill said European Parliament and EU are ready to send substantial Election Observation Mission.
Gill said delaying elections will send adverse signals "internally and externally" that the country is not able to hold the polls.
On the issue of Bhutanese refugees, Gill – whose delegation came to Kathmandu after visiting Thimpu – said they were informed by Bhutanese authorities of the latter's willingness to reopen talks with Nepal. "The time is particularly right given the American offer of resettlement. We cannot continue with the situation indefinitely," she said, adding that even after resettlement in third countries, the refugees will continue to retain the right to return to Bhutan. She, however, added that it was not realistic to imagine that all 100,000 refugees will be able to return to Bhutan. Two members of the delegation are visiting refugee camps.
During their stay in Nepal, the delegation met with Prime Minister GP Koirala, deputy Prime Minister KP Oli, Law Minister Narendra Nemwang, Speaker Subas Nemwang, Chief Election Commissioner Dr. Bhoj Raj Pokharel, UNMIN chief Ian Martin, chief of OHCHR-Nepal Lena Sundh and US ambassador James Moriarty, among others. nepalnews.com sd Mar 23 07
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