Nepal: Peace Hopes Dimming

By Larry Habegger | Permalink | No Comments | December 27th, 2005 | Trackback

The cautious optimism for a political settlement to the Maoist insurgency may be waning. The unilateral ceasefire declared by the Maoists is set to expire Jan. 2 and fighting flared Dec. 26 when the rebels attacked an army patrol in Rolpa in western Nepal. The Maoists have also called for a seven-day general strike known here as a “bandh” to begin Feb. 5. The strike is being called in an effort to disrupt elections set for Feb. 8, elections that King Gyanendra says are necessary to resuscitate democracy but that the Maoists and a collection of political parties feel is a ploy to appease the international community. The government has announced that it would take action against anyone trying to disrupt the elections, so fears of escalating violence and renewed hostilities are growing.

Home » Asia, Nepal, Insurgent violence, Strikes, Elections

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