The SPA, the Maoists, and other players lack sincerity, transparency, honesty, and unity. The political discourse now should be on what is right and what is wrong and who gets what and who takes responsibility. The government must consider the Nepal army and Maoist military wing as formidable forces that can destabilise the country at any moment. Neither should be treated favourably, or as a stepson. Nepal could look to South Africa's transition in bringing the army and guerrilla groups together successfully.

Plato wrote, "mankind will not get rid of its evils until either the class of those who philosophise in truth and rectitude reach political power, or those most powerful in cities, under some divine dispensation, really get to philosophising." As long as the politicians do not learn to speak the truth to the people, your editorial ('Peace riddle', #308) will stand. "The national mood tends to swing from euphoria to hopelessness."

S Tuladhar,
Geneva