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Three parties to unveil CMP, code of conduct on Monday

The three main allies in the new government - Maoists, Unified Marxist Leninist (UML) and Madhesi Janadhikar Forum (MJF) - are set to unveil the common minimum programme (CMP), code the conduct for ministers as well as the modus operandi of the government on Monday, leaders said.

The three-party leaders today finalised the drafts of the CMP, code of conduct and the government's modus operandi. According to MJF leader JP Gupta, the drafts would be signed by the leaders at a programme in Singha Durbar at 10 am tomorrow.

The five-page CMP has set priorities such as timely drafting of new constitution, brining the peace process to a logical end, restructuring of the state, immediate relief to the conflict-affected people, integration of Maoist army into Nepal Army and implementation of past agreements, among others.

Meanwhile, the three parties discussed the division of portfolios in the new government. Maoist leaders today held separate meetings with UML and MJF leaders at Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal's Naya Bazaar residence.

MJF leader Gupta told reporters after a meeting with the Maoist leadership that the three parties were very close to reaching an agreement on power-sharing and that they were prepared to name a full-fledged cabinet on Monday when Prime Minister Dahal takes oath of office and secrecy.

The three parties also held internal meetings to finalise the names of their ministers, but could not take decisions with the alliance still working on division of portfolios. nepalnews.com mk Aug 17 08