Amid political deadlock linked to the Maoist government’s move to sack the Nepal Army chief, the former rebels today showcased their strength by holding a massive rally on May Day in the capital.
The ruling CPN-Maoist are deadlocked over the divisive issue with most of the political parties, including its key coalition partner CPN-UML and the main opposition Nepali Congress.
Top Maoist leader Baburam Bhattarai, who is also the Finance Minister, said CPN-Maoist was ready to quit the coalition in support of the party’s line on the issue.
Speaking at the rally in Kathmandu, Bhattarai said the move to sack army chief General Katawal has created a wave from New Delhi to Washington, which we cannot accept.
Amid speculation that Prime Minister Prachanda would announce the removal of the General Katawal today, the Maoist chief failed to turn up for the rally.
The Standing Committee of the CPN-UML threatened to pull out of the coalition yesterday if the Maoists unilaterally sacked General Katawal.
We cannot accept the Maoists’ unilateral decision to sack the army chief, said senior UML leader KP Oli.
{{/usCountry}}We cannot accept the Maoists’ unilateral decision to sack the army chief, said senior UML leader KP Oli.
{{/usCountry}}Dinanath Sharma, the CPN-Maoist spokesman, said they will make efforts to convince other political parties to take action against General Katawal.