UML Chief calls Maoists to withdraw protests

KANTIPUR REPORT

File Photo: UML Chairman Jhalanath Khanal (Left), Maoist chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Centre) with NC President GP Koirala

The meeting centred on Khanal's scheduled India trip, Maoist agitation, and efforts for political understanding

KATHMANDU, NOV 03 - CPN-UML Chairman Jhalanath Khanal urged the UCPN (Maoists) to withdraw their agitation programmes and come to the talks table.

Issuing a press statement today before embarking on a week-long India visit, the UML Chieftain remarked that the conflict, widening differences, and souring relationship among the political parties would affect timely accomplishment of the slated national tasks and responsibilities. He underscored the need for national consensus among the major political parties at the earliest in order to speed up the major tasks.

Reiterating his call to the Maoists to come for negotiation, the UML Chairman said the protests launched by the Maoists would hinder the institutional development of the republic, peace process and the statute drafting.

Khanal meets Koirala

Earlier today, Khanal called on Nepali Congress President Girija Prasad Koirala.

The meeting held at Koirala’s residence in Maharajgunj mainly centred on Khanal’s India trip, Unified CPN (Maoist)’s nationwide agitation and efforts for political understanding.

The NC President has stepped up political consultations with key political players after the Maoists launched their second round of phase-wise protests. Only yesterday, he met Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal.