Kathmandu: The UN Mission in Nepal has defended itself against criticism over the movement of armed Maoist combatants, saying their commanders not the agency, were responsible for controlling the troops in cantonments.
The United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN) clarified in a statement that it does not have mandate for enforcement or control role over movement of former rebels.
The statement comes after Peace Minister Rakam Chemjung accused UNMIN of failing to effectively perform its responsibilities as Maoist combatants supposed to be confined in camps were moving around freely carrying arms.
"The normal Nepal Army and Maoists` Army chain of command, control and communication apply during the barracking and cantonment of their respective personnel", it said.
"Maoist commanders in cantonments are responsible for camp security, access control, daily routines and control of troops," the statement said.
It criticised the political parties, saying that parties themselves have fixed the role of UNMIN`s monitoring role in the Comprehensive Peace Agreement of Arms and Armies and it functions as per the paper.
The UN body drew flack from various political groups in Nepal after 19 armed Maoist of People`s Liberation Army (PLA) ventured out of the fourth division camp in Kapilvastu on Monday.
Bureau Report
