Ruling parties could cobble up a new ‘democratic coalition; other details

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 30 June: Leaders of the incumbent government said Wednesday the ruling coalition will attempt to form another ‘democratic coalition’ which will keep Maoists away from a consensus government.
Following the resignation of Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, Vice-chairman Baburam Bhattarai staked a Maoist claim to lead a government of consensus.
Nepali Congress leader Krishna Prasad Shitaula rules out his party joining a Maoist-led government.
‘I don’t see a possibility of a government with Maoists,’ he said revealing Nepal didn’t consult his party before the resignation.
The NC was informed of the resignation only, he said.
Shitaula said there was a possibility of ‘a new majority government under this coalition’ and added, ‘We’ll have to wait land see.’
The former home minister said Maoists can’t lead a government with their weapons and fighters intact.
UML Chairman Jhala Nath Khanal said the ‘leadership of the new government will be discussed’.
Deputy Prime Minister and MJFL Chairman Bijaya Kumar Gachedhar staked a claim to lead a new coalition ‘which will ‘be better than the coalition with big parties’.
Government Spokesman Shanker Pokhrel (UML) said a new ‘democratic coalition ‘ will be led by present ruling parties ruling out a ‘consensus government’.
Uncertainty continues with the resignation of Madhav Kumar Nepal with a heightened tussle to bring down the government as ruling parties attempt to assemble another coalition without Nepal.
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