Nepali Times
From The Nepali Press
Give up violence



Though the political parties seem positive about the offer for negotiations made by the Maoists, they cannot trust them. All Nepalis and the international community want peace and democracy restored. But if the king or the Maoists have central power, it will isolate the country further. It would be welcomed if the Maoists were to admit that no political victory can be won through military means. But the Maoists must also be clear that they cannot demand 'agendas' of the political parties at gunpoint. Until the Maoists stop killing cadres of the seven political parties and civilians, they will not have laid to rest their belief in violence. Any individual or group who does not respect another individual's right to life, liberty and security cannot support democracy. Even if the conflict between Baburam Bhattarai and Prachanda seems to have ended, until they prove that they respect democratic values they will not be able to earn the respect of the people. The Maoists are stained by violence and can't be entrusted with supervising the restoration of democracy. When they abide by a ceasefire and prove that they have ended all violent activities, it is the Maoists' right to set up a common agenda with the political parties for a peaceful struggle. But for this to happen, they must accept politics as something that can be achieved through people's support and through non-violence. We cannot forget that the Maoists once stated that they would talk only to the king. After February First, one faction in the Maoists were still willing to talk to the monarch. Therefore, democratic forces must be clear about how committed and dedicated the Maoists are towards democracy. Only if the Maoists give up violence and work together with the political parties, will a revolution be successful.


LATEST ISSUE
638
(11 JAN 2013 - 17 JAN 2013)


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