The Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) has announced to call off its unilateral ceasefire declared four months ago.
A press statement issued by the Maoist supremo, Prachanda, on Monday said his party was compelled to withdraw the ceasefire “as the government continued its military operation even during the period of unilateral ceasefire.”
Citing the military operation being carried out by the Royal Nepalese Army (RNA) in Rolpa and the actions against Maoist cadres in Palpa, Morang and other parts of the country during the first three-month long ceasefire, the Maoist leader said that to continue the ceasefire in this situation was “not only impossible but would also be suicidal”.
Mentioning that the ceasefire drew extensive support from within and outside the country, his party, however, deeply understood the calls made by national and international sides including the United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU) to extend ceasefire.
The Maoists action, Prachanda said, will be directed towards the “autocratic royal regime” and the municipal elections slated for February 8.
He also expressed commitment to assist the ongoing movement of the seven-party alliance as per the 12-point agreement reached earlier between the two sides.
The Maoists had announced a unilateral ceasefire on September 2, 2005 expressing solidarity to the agitation of the seven political parties and extended it for a month on December 2.
The Maoist chairmans announcement comes despite the calls from the seven parties, national and international human rights groups, the civil society and the international community including the UN and the EU to give continuity to the truce and join the peaceful political process.
Kilde: nepalnews.com
