Panel for Maoists’ integration
Deadlock ends as Prachanda agrees to demands

Kathmandu, December 27
Nepal Premier Prachanda has agreed to reconstitute a key panel linked to the integration of the former Maoist guerrillas with the national army, a move that could put the derailed peace process back on track.

Prachanda agreed to the Nepali Congress demand for equal representation, with two member each for the main opposition party and the ruling CPN-Maoist and its partner CPN-UML on the Army Integration Special Committee (AISC).

The end of the deadlock came yesterday during a crucial meeting of the ruling CPN-Maoist, CPN-UML and Nepali Congress, paving the way for initiating the process for the integration and rehabilitation of the Maoists’ Peoples Liberation Army personnel.

“We have agreed to send our representatives to the AISC as per the agreement as we have decided to cooperate in the matter,” Sujata Koirala, central member of Nepali Congress, who is also the daughter of Nepali Congress President Girija Prasad Koirala, said.

Earlier, the Nepali Congress was provided one seat and CPN-Maoists had two seats on the committee, forcing the main opposition party to refrain from joining the committee.

“The parties have agreed to give full shape to the special committee and also expedite the work relating to the integration and rehabilitation of the PLA confined in cantonments in accordance with the past agreements, including the Comprehensive Peace Accord said,” CPN-UML leader Bhim Rawal said.

The new development would speed up the delayed peace process and expedite the framing of the new Constitution by the 601-member Constituent Assembly. — PTI