PM Baburam Bhattarai has declared that there will be a breakthrough in the peace process by next week but we haven't seen anything concrete so far. And if anyone is to blame for the protracted stalemate, it is the Maoists who have not given up on threats of a revolt in spite of joining the mainstream. The Bhattari and Dahal faction have given in to Baidya's political blackmailing and endorsed revolt only to balance out the hardliners. However, the events of the last six years make clear that the Maoists cannot go back to the jungle.

Also is it okay for one party to jeopardize the entire constitution writing and peace process for its narrow interests? Dahal has done a good job keeping the party together and not letting it split. He should now show the courage and decide in favor of peace and constitution.

If the Maoists are ready to compromise for the peace process, the Congress should be flexible in the debate of governance system. If the Congress keeps on insisting on a Westminster model and the Maoists on a presidential system, there will be no way out. There are two options left now: the mixed model or a directly-elected Prime Minister and a ceremonial president elected by the parliament. The parties have to come to a decision soon.