The peace process has been welcomed by all as the most positive initiative to restore security and development ("Peace now, talks later", #134). This process should be allowed to move ahead in a positive direction. The nation cannot shoulder the burden of conflict any longer. The main priority of the Nepali people is peace, and all parties need to understand and respond to this popular will. The role of the monarchy is a crucial and important one to ensure trust and goodwill. The political parties need to be proactive and work towards resolving the political, social, cultural factors that underly the conflict so that the ceasefire can be turned into lasting peace. The role of the major political parties is essential to effect this process. Likewise, civil society needs to manage conflict and work on national reconciliation. It is very important for all sides to be present strongly and actively with honesty to take responsibility so that the peace process is not derailed. Civil society needs to do its homework to make the upcoming dialogue successful. This is a great opportunity to re-establish peace, prosperity, civil liberties and sustainable development on the basis of a national consensus.

Khagendra Bhattarai, Tara Nath Dahal, Ramesh Nath Dhungel, Madan Krishna Shrestha, Hari Bansa Acharya, Sundar Mani Dixit, Trilokya Nath Upreti, Sindhu Nath Pyakurel, Rajendra Khetan, Shambu Shrestha, Dev Prakash Tripathi