Parties in discussion over alternatives

The UCPN(M), NC, UML and the SLMM have entered into discussion over the revival of the Constituent Assembly as an alternative to the current political deadlock.

Agni Sapkota, spokesperson of the UCPN(M), said that discussions over fresh elections would take place only if consensus over CA revival cannot be reached. He added that a decision regarding the CA would come by 19 September.

There have also been talks regarding who should lead the national unity government if either decision was made. Maoist leader Amik Sherchan said an NC-led government was possible only if the CA was revived following consensus on contentious issues of the constitution, but not if the country were to head for fresh elections.

Earlier, the NC and UML had been adamant that the first condition for consensus was the resignation of the government while the ruling alliance maintained that the government would only step down after consensus was reached.