TIME FLIES: This dramatic sunset over Swoyambhu is a fitting end to a momentous year.
(MIN BAJRACHARYA)

Across the country, ordinary Nepalis told us this week about their hopes and aspirations for 2064. The overwhelming desire is for the government to get over its obsession with politics so there will be peace and an improvement in their lives.

. Just because we can travel around freely now, that doesn't mean our country is at peace. Peace comes when the smiles return to the faces of Nepalis. Peace comes when innocent women still have husbands who are alive.

Ambika Timilsina,
Chitwan

. The interim government should fulfil the wishes of the people for peace. Let the two armies start reforming themselves. Let's see real peace in 2064.

Dambar Biswakarma,
Ilam

. Nepali fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters are finally experiencing the end of conflict. Let's protect this peace so there is development.

Hemlata Chemjong,
Panchthar

. Let's hope the new year will see the political will to steer the country towards peace and progress.

Puskar Kharel,
Gulmi

. Let's hope us students can now get on with our studies again. Let us pray that the country will never see war again. Most of all, let us all work together to build a truly new Nepal which we can all call our own.

Kalpana Baral,
Jhapa

. In this region of Nepal, the war is still going on. There hasn't been a ceasefire. What is the point having a home if there is no family? What is the point having a country if citizens aren't treated equally? Let's work together for peace so our country Nepal can move forward.

Ram Bilas Yadav,
Siraha

. There will be peace only with justice, and if there is justice no one has to take up arms.

Shyam Chaudhary,
Saptari

. Let no force try to provoke innocent Nepalis to take up arms against each other again.

Lt Bhan Bahadur Airi,
Sindhupalchok

. The country is trying to breathe again, let's make sure the conflict doesn't re-ignite.

Hridaya Sharma,
Gorkha

. We have no more tears to cry. We have to protect peace so Nepalis can live decent lives.

Pragya Shrestha,
Dolakha