David Brooks comment 'Elections at the time of insurgency' (#218) must have helped create a supportive environment for the government that has decided to go to polls in case the Maoists do not respond to its invitation for meaningful dialogue. As Brooks argues, the situation in Nepal is similar to that in El Salvador 20 years ago and I think that elections can be held in Nepal as well. But, it is always better for the government to consult and seek support from the political parties lying outside the spectrum of the current four party pro-government alliance. The elected government will have a constitutional base, right and power to deal with the Maoists and yield the result that its predecessors couldn't. I don't think anyone can question its legitimacy in case free and fair elections are held. The recent elections in Afghanistan must have also produced proof to leaders, civil society and general public in Nepal that polls can be conducted in spite of threats to disturb the polling process. And it is the only way out of the current impasse as it answers the doubts of agitating parties and rebels that have questioned the government's legitimacy.

Bikendra Shamsher Thapa,
email