Nepal’s Maoists may take up arms again
Posted by Mike E on December 1, 2007
Chitwan, November 24, The Himalayan Times Online
CPN-Maoist chairman Prachanda said today that the Maoist People’s Liberation (PLA) army would fight for 40 years for people’s liberation, if necessary.
Speaking on the occasion of the seventh anniversary of the founding of the PLA at the PLA’s third division here, Prachanda said that as long they exist, the CPN-Maoist and the PLA will continue to work for the welfare of the people.
“We had decided that after the 10-year-long conflict and the 19-day April uprising, there should be no more bloodshed. However, if the government and the other parties do not understand certain ground realities, we would be forced to take up arms again,” he said.
Prachanda said that this time the conflict would not end in 10 years, but would go on for 40 years.
“We have not yet decided to resort to an armed struggle. Instead, we are for peaceful solution to all issues. We are still in favour of sorting out differences through dialogue. However, if the situation does not work out in favour of the people, another mass uprising will ensue which will be spearheaded by the CPN-Maoist and PLA.”
The programme, chaired by PLA deputy commander Pasang, was attended by the UN weapons inspection and control team chief John Eric Wilhensen. Senior Maoist leaders including Dr Baburam Bhattarai, Mohan Baidya ‘Kiran’, Ram Bahadur Thapa ‘Badal’, Diwakar and PLA deputy commander Ananta, were also present.
andreimazenov said
This is an interesting development, especially because of the huge debate going on around the direction that the Nepali revolution is going.
Some questions I have:
-How will this affect the Seven Party Alliance and their relationship with the monarchy?
-Is this going to lead the CPN(M) on their final drive to seize power?
-How will the UN, US, EU, and/or India respond to this?
-How will this affect CPN(M) relationship with the Communist Party of India (Maoist)?
umeshpao said
As of today, SPA have come to a consensus on the two major issues – of declaring the country a republic and adopting propertional electoral system. And, CPN(M) wants to be back into the government.