- Read interview: A mid-point is needed: PM
Speaking to myrepublica.com during an exclusive interview, he said the UCPN Maoist leaders have no way out but to cooperate with the government. Convinced that the Maoist leaders have realized that status quo would help no party, least of which themselves, the prime minister was in upbeat mood.
"There is a possibility of ending the deadlock," he said. Pointing out that the parties met twice recently, he added, "The meeting in itself is positively significant. But the media somehow missed the significance of these meetings."
However, he ruled out striking any compromise over President Dr Ram Baran Yadav´s action (overruling the Maoist government´s sacking of the then army chief Rookmangud Katawal). "One thing is clear that we cannot drag the president into any controversy or put him into a difficult situation."
He acknowledged the Maoists´ fear of setting a bad precedent: that of a president over-ruling the action of an elected cabinet. "The future worry is whether the president will become autocratic, whether he will abuse his powers or whether there will be an imposition of presidential rule," he said. "So why not agree on a constitutional arrangement keeping these factors in mind. That could be a joint resolution."
He emphasized that the Maoists who are saying they want to lead the government again have no other alternative but to muster majority in the parliament for it to happen.
"The parties supporting the government are firmly behind it. If the Maoists become too impatient, they will be the biggest to lose. Confusion will only lead to unthinkable consequences," he further said.
The prime minister also ruled out the existence of any rift within his party as well as rejecting the contention that his own party was not so keen on the continuity of his government. "The party chairman (Jhala Nath Khanal) has categorically said that there is no alternative to this government."
He dubbed his upcoming visit to the UN General Assembly in New York as very important. He mentioned climate change and Nepal´s position on it, meeting US President Barack Obama during a meeting of top 10 nations contributing largest number of troops to the UN peacekeeping missions, and meeting British Prime Minister Gordon Brown as important parts of itinerary. He also hoped meeting the new prime minister of Japan Yukio Hatoyama.
Replying to a question about how we should look at our relationship with China and India, he said, "Friendship, understanding and cordial relationship with the neighbors is what we look for."
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damakant@myrepublica.com
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