PRESIDENT YADAV MEETS TOP PARTY LEADERS Kathmandu, 7 June: President Dr. Ram Baran Yadaa held separate meetings with NC President Sushil Koirala and UML Chairman Jhalanath Khanal Thursday , President Yadav also held discussions with Maoist Chairman Prachanda. The head of state has been pressing parties to settle differences and agree on an election ordinance to conduct constituent assembly elections. Chairman Prachanda also held discussions with UML Chairman Jhalanath Khanal Thursday ahead of a crucial meeting of a high-level political committee chaired by the NML chief. nnnn HLPL MEETS FRIDAY Kathmandu, 7 June; Crucial meeting of the high-level political committee (HLPC) of the Big Three ad Madesh Morcha meets Friday to attempt resolution of differences on issues related to proposed constituent assembly elections. Nearly three months after appointment, government of Chairman Khil Raj Regmi hasn’t been able to declare formal election date awaiting settlement of differences of election issues between UCPN Maoist, NC, UML and Madesh Morcha while 33 parties oppose elections. Constituents of HLPC meet as President Dr. Ram Baran Yadav in meetings this week with party leaders called for resolution of election matters to announce a date for election and conduct it 14 November as suggested by Chief Election Commissioner Neelkantha Uprethy. Parties differ on a one percent threshold to limit the number for which 139 have applied, whether persons with criminal record can contest elections and other isses. The parties agree assembly strength should be 491. Without agreement of the parties, government could propose election laws unilaterally to conduct the vote amid speculation even from leaders of HLPC the proposed November/ December election won’t be held amid pressure and assurances from western of help from western powers to hold elections. The vote is essential to promulgate a constitution to institutionalize a declared republic. nnnn BHOTO DUSPLAY FRIDAY Kathmandu, 7 June: Bhoto is being displayed Friday fro the chariot of Rato Machinranath in Jawalakhel Friday afternoon. A public holiday in he Vakley has been declared. The country’s longest festival ends of the displae to be attended by senior officials, including Chairman of the Interim Election Council Khil Raj Regmi and head of state President Dr..Ram Baran Yadav. nnnn