Maoists to pull out?

Although the Maoists played a major role in UML leader Jhala Nath Khanal’s win at the PM elections, the party has now hinted that it may stay out of the new government.

“The UML leaders misinterpreted the Maoist-UML agreement. So, our party will not participate in the government,” said Maoist Vice Chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha Thursday morning. He added the Maoist party will work for peace and the constitution from outside the government, and support government programs depending on their merit.

The tilt came after the party couldn't forge consensus with UML on the allocation of ministries as per the seven-point agreement signed between Prime Minister Jhala Nath Khanal and Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal. Both parties are vying for the Home Ministry.

The two had met earlier this morning at the prime minister’s official residence in Baluwatar but failed to reach an agreement. Prime Minister Khanal is now considering giving full shape to the government with the help of other parties after Dahal stuck to his stance that the seven-point agreement has to be implemented to bring the Maoist party on board.

UML Secretary Shankar Pokhrel has said that efforts to convince the Maoists to join will continue, but added that it will also invite other parties to join the government if this does not work out.