It was interesting to read last week's poll report ('What we think', #317). In the back of my mind were the prime minister's remarks about giving space to the monarchy, and its relevance. The institution of the monarchy is at its lowest popularity and vigour, which is what led to these unprecedented changes. Yet, the fact that almost 50 percent of people want to keep it, is a phenomenon in itself. The prime minister's comments weren't for nothing. No individual leader has high enough approval ratings to guide and shoulder this nation to lasting peace. This means that reconciliation and consensus is the only way out of this political stalemate. It requires mutual acknowledgement and respect between all the existing powers, the king, political parties, and Maoists. After all, democracy is all about accommodation and tolerating dissent and contradiction.

PB Rana,
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