MIN BAJRACHARYA

There were three main reasons for the April uprising. First, when the people saw that the parties and Maoists had come to an agreement via the 12-point pact, they understood that there was still hope that the Maoists would give up arms and take the peaceful way out. Secondly, anger was growing towards the royalty after the king took direct power and, thirdly, the state started suppressing the non-violent movement with force and torture. To encourage the Maoists to give up arms, we need to move towards an unconditional constituent assembly without delay. The word 'unconditional' is needed because in Nepal leaders are not known for putting their words into actions. We are certain that via a constituent assembly the majority would vote for a democratic republic so that the monarchy, like an epidemic, would forever be eradicated. If such action is not taken, those who were responsible for suppressing the movement this time will soon reorganise under the king's leadership again. To ask for a ceremonial king or to be satisfied with a constitutional monarchy will be a betrayal to the martyrs. The main responsibility of this government is to hold parliamentary elections as soon as possible. For it to be an inclusive government the new interim ministers should be women, dalits, madhesis and indigenous people. The 12-point agreement already touches on human rights and freedom but the state should be representative of social justice. The new constitution should reflect the feelings of the people's movement, which was the ideal example of a non-violent movement and a lesson to the rest of the world. We, the members of civil society, are not interested in power. To suggest that we become ministers is to offend us. We are here to make people stronger, ensure permanent peace, protect human rights and to strengthen the culture of democracy. We will continue our movement without self-interest for many years to come.