According to a research report prepared based on field observation of the 25 districts between February and June 2011, improvements in the behavior of UCPN (Maoist) cadres at the local level and a decline in armed group activity in parts of the Tarai were main reasons behind the improvement in political space. [break]
The center however said Maoist activities in certain areas of the country and the presence of armed groups in parts of the Tarai continue. "It is unclear whether the improvements in political space made to date can be sustained during future elections," states the report.
The report says that public activities of the political parties are relatively few. "Many party cadres complained of lack of instructions, guidance and support from their central-level leaders," reads the report.
The report however admits that Maoist violence and threats persist in some areas.
"Carter Center observers were told by non-Maoist party members in multiple districts that the conflict-era mentality of Maoist cadres is fading and that non-Maoist parties are increasingly free to organize and conduct activities in rural areas, including in traditional Maoist strongholds," Dr David Pottie, associate director of the Democracy Program at the Center, said, adding, "Nonetheless, serious incidents of Maoist violence and threats, as well as lingering psychological fear from the conflict persist in some areas."
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