After several ups and downs in the process during the past year, the final phase of the integration came to an end after 70 former Maoist combatants selected as officer-cadets were conferred the insignia of lieutenant in the Nepal Army amidst a function at Nepal Military Academy, Kharipati in Bhaktapur on Monday.
Chairman of the Interim Election Council Khila Raj Regmi and Chief of Army Staff (CoAS) Gaurav Shumsher JB Rana jointly presented the insignia of rank to the cadets, who have successfully completed the officer cadet induction basic course during the past nine months. [break]
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman Regmi, who also observed the passing-out parade, said, “With the confering of insignia on the cadets, the integration process of former Maoist combatants completes the final phase and brings to an end the remarkable achievement that the entire peace process has been.”
It is now time to mull seriously about framing the constitution as the second phase of the peace process, he said and appealed to everyone to concentrate on the successful holding of the CA polls scheduled for November 19.
Regmi wished the cadets a successful journey ahead and hoped that as officers they would make a contribution to the national interest and to development.
CoAS Rana, also addressing the function, said that the integration of the former Maoist combatants into the Nepal Army has been a cornerstone of the CPA. He also wrote in the social networking site that, “Without compromising it´s professional integrity the Nepal Army has contributed its part in this unique process".
He further said that on this special occasion of the commissioning of those completing the Officer Cadet Induction Basic Course, he would like to wish the newly commissioned officers all success in their future endeavors.
On the occasion, coordinator for the Special Committee (for the supervision, integration and rehabilitation of former combatants) Balananda Sharma said, “This day marks the successful conclusion of the entire integration and management process of the 19,602 candidates.”
Speaking to media after the function, UCPN (Maoist) leader Krishna Bahadur Mahara said, "The joint efforts of our party, other political parties and the Nepal Army have led to the logical conclusion of the army integration process. I would now like to request the candidates who are passing out to fully dedicate themselves to the nation and to the institution."
Of the 70 officer-cadets, Yam Bahadur Adhikari will be given the rank of colonel as per the earlier agreement. After taking part in the ceremony, Adhikari said, “Now we are a single army of the nation and will fight together for its protection in case of any threat, and for national development, as per the command of the institution.”
Among others passing out at the function, Bashudev Ghimire and Padam Bahadur Tamang will be given the rank of lieutenant colonel. Another 13 will be given the rank of major, 30 will get captain and 24 lieutenant.
The cadets will join a three-month bridging course before taking on their new responsibilities.
Also present at the function were UCPN Maoist Chairman Puspa Kama Dahal, leader of Nepali Congress Sher Bahadur Deuba, leaders of the major parties, foreign ambassadors and the families of the cadets, among others.
Out of 19,602 verified Maoist combatants who opted for rehabilitation packages, around 14,000 chose voluntary retirement and went away with cash packages.
Altogether 1,444 former Maoist combatants participated in the training, including 71 training for officer level ranks and the remaining 1,373 for other ranks. The ranks were determined in accordance with the recommendation of the Special Committee, on which leaders from the major political forces were represented.
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