Kathmandu: Political parties in Nepal on Sunday
were deadlocked over the issue of the resignation of Prime
Minister Jhala Nath Khanal as they failed to agree on a new
national unity government and integration of the former Maoist
combatants with the security forces.
A crucial meeting of the main parties, including the
Terai-based Joint Democratic Madhesi Front, failed to find a
common ground on the contentious issues of the peace process,
constitution drafting and a new national government to succeed
Khanal-led coalition.
The meeting attended by top Nepalese leaders, including
UCPN-Maoist chairman Prachanda, Nepali Congress President
Sushil Koirala and CPN-UML chairman and Prime Minister Khanal,
ended inconclusively.
Leaders of the main opposition Nepali Congress and
Madhesi Front asked the Prime Minister to honour his
commitment and step down so as to end the present political
imbroglio.
They reiterated their demand for the Khanal's resignation
so as to implement the May 29 five-point deal he had signed
with UCP-Maoist and Nepali Congress while extending the term
of the 601-member Assembly on May 28 by three months.
"There is no alternative to the PM's resignation," NC
said Ram Sharan Mahat, the Nepali Congress leader, who was
present at the meeting held at Khanal's official residence.
He said the PM?s resignation will create pressure for
forming a national consensus on key issues.
Khanal, who earlier this month had promised to step down
by August 13, has now refused to quit till a consensus is
formed on a new coalition.
Khanal has told leaders of the Nepali Congress and the
Maoists that his resignation without a consensus on a new
government would result in a constitutional crisis as the
extended term of the Assembly is set to expire in August end.
PTI
First Published: Sunday, August 14, 2011, 18:36