Political stalemate continues

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 8 Aug; A political deadlock continued with a Maoist failure to form a government by 8 PM Friday.
President Dr Ram Baran Yadav had extended the first week-long deadline for Maoists to form an elected government by three days until Friday night.
Chairman Prachanda said there was no agreement between his party, NC, CPN-UML and MJF on a common minimum programme and sharing of important ministerial portfolios.
Maoists are being denied control the vital ministries home and defence to control the police and Nepal Army.
The Maoist chief said a meeting will be held again Saturday to try to break a deadlock.
The issue of government formation will now be referred to the CA if there is no agreement to replace Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala installed in office through street protests and foreign support and interference notably from India, USA and Great Britain.
The president has already accepted the resignation of Koirala who was asked to continue until formation of another government.
Koirala himself is trying to form a government without Maoists following meetings with Indian leaders in Colombo on the sidelines of the 15th SAARC summit and while transiting through New Delhi on his return home from Sri Lanka.
Koirala reportedly said the ‘international community’ wants a government of national consensus in Nepal.

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