Nepal has still not been able to convince the MJF, TMLP and SP to join. The reason: disagreement about who should get plum ministries.

However, ministers appointed without portfolios two weeks ago finally got their assignments with the UML's Bhim Rawal at the helm of the key Home Ministry. Analysts say with the problems of rising crime and a deteriorating law and order situation, Rawal has his work cut out.

NC-nominated CA member Nilambar Acharya says he is encouraged because this is a civilian cabinet with members that believe in democracy. "There is no one in it with guns," he told Nepali Times.

Maoist CA member Hari Roka is not so positive: "They are all people who have lost elections, so they are accountable to their parties and not to the people."

The visit by Indian Foreign Secretary Shiva Shankar Menon on Saturday is seen as significant as New Delhi tries to use its leverage to end the prolonged political deadlock over government formation. Menon is expected to urge the Madhesi parties to join a consensus government. His visit may also have a bearing on the Maoist Politburo meeting where a hardline faction advocating confrontation is facing a more pragmatic, but beleaguered, party leadership.

Dewan Rai