Despite the Maoists leadership diluting its declaration at the 5th plenum public consumption, the difficulties are apparent. The conclusion that all ideological, political and moral basis for staying in the government was exhausted has paved a way for the Maoists to quit Singha Darbar.

If the Maoists intended to establish a republic peacefully then their plan hasn't worked so far. Although they displayed maturity by deciding against opting out from the government immediately or boycotting elections, the widening gap between their ambitions and the practicalities of politics could force them out of the government sooner or later. After that they are likely to take to the streets and eventually hope to launch an urban uprising to grab state power.

The country is likely to be sandwiched between the status-quoist seven parties and the Maoists who want to bring about change by force. Even after the Maoists' decision that basis of unity has been exhausted, the seven parties have not responded. Both the Maoists' path of another round of rebellion and the parties affinity for the status quo is dangerous. Unless the Maoists and the parties redefine their unity, the country is headed headlong to the brink. And both the sides would be responsible if we fell off.