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Maoists present draft of CMP before all-party meeting

CPN (Maoist) went a step further today as part of its preparation to form the new government, presenting the draft of common minimum programme (CMP) at a meeting with the 24 other parties represented in the Constituent Assembly (CA).

Presenting the draft of CMP for debate, Maoists leaders urged the parties for support in forming a government of national consensus. No decision came from the meeting while leaders said there would be further discussion would on the CMP.

Talking to reporters after the meeting, Maoist spokesperson Krishna Bahadur Mahara said the CMP underscores the aspiration of the Nepali people for forward-looking change and lasting peace.

In the CMP, the Maoist party has proposed the restructuring of the state in the spirit of the federalism, drafting of new condition within two years, immediate relief package to conflict-affected and poor people, integration of Maoist combatants and management of arms within three months as per the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), restructuring of the bureaucracy to make it suitable for the federal system, special development programmes for Karnali region, employment to youths, price control, and normalisation of supply of fuel and other essentials - among others.

Reacting to the 'conditions' floated by the Maoists for forming the government, Nepali Congress leader Arjun Narsingh K.C said the NC was not in a position to guarantee that the Maoist-led government enjoys full two-year term. He said support from his party would depend on the programmes of the government.

Likewise, CPN (UML) leader Bishnu Poudel was of view that the Maoists' behavior was the main factor behind the delay in forming the government. Poudel, who is the deputy leader of the UML in the CA, said his party was in favour of a unity government. nepalnews.com Aug 02 08