The recent cabinet reshuffle by King Gyanendra is a clear
indication that he is not very happy with its working in the last six months. That he has
not replaced the three ministers that have been dropped is another satisfactory aspect of
the reshuffle. Because, it is not the size but the performance they put in, makes or
breaks a government. Despite all the controversies about the legality of the government
raised by the frustrated politicians and their cronies, we firmly believe that the King
was well authorized by Clause 127 of the Constitution under the circumstances that
necessitated its formation. Even though the overwhelming majority of the people do not
seem to pay any attention to the protests and venom spitting by the corrupt politicians,
they are manifesting clear signs of restlessness in the delay in starting the long awaited
dialogues with the Maoists that will restore lasting peace and normalcy in the devastated
kingdom. That the threats by some Maoists leaders to go back to the jungle to resort to
violence are nothing but childish outbursts, both parties must shake off their
hesitations, if any, and start the negotiations without undue delay. And this calls for a
just, strong and reasonable stance by the government. If the government keeps on giving in
to all the demands of the Maoists including the release of their leaders and cadres and
the Maoists do not surrender their arms while maintaining their iron grip on some of the
districts still under their control do not augur well for the ensuing peace talks and
neither clears the atmosphere for generating goodwill and bonhomie. If the Maoists are
sincere in their commitment for a lasting peace, what is preventing them from exhibiting
their bona fide by laying down their arms? They are not that naÔve not to follow the
trends that the days of violence and terror are over and they do not have any other option
but to reach an understanding with the government. Even the hesitation on the parts of the
Heads of the Diplomatic Missions based in Kathmandu to meet them is another clear
indication that they have yet to establish their credibility and give ample proofs of
their unstinted faith in peace. That their insistence on taking along the discredited
politicians to the table of negotiations will only hamper the talks is as clear as
crystal. Since the image of the Maoists is not sullied as corrupt and anti-national like
that of the politicians who have already wielded the authority they have not only to
safeguard their image but behave in a manner that they will be able to win the trust and
respect of the general mass. They must be well acquainted with the fact that Nepal has
always been a playground of political forces, most of the time inimical to the national
interests. Consequently, they must not fail to recognize those forces and should never
associate with them if they are thinking of coming to the forefront. They must not have
missed a new trend that has recently resurfaced in Nepalese politics. Ramraja Prasad Singh
has not only returned to Nepal but already started queering the political pitch. All
nationalist forces must see through the evil designs of such people, whom they represent
and what are their ultimate ends. Since, Nepalese people are not only standing at the
crossroads but facing the precipice, there are no alternatives to a speedy lasting peace
that will pave the way for restoring and normalizing the democratic way of life. Nobody
can turn the clock back. As such, we have to go forward only. And, at this juncture, King
Gyanendraís role has assumed greater importance. As de facto power lies in the palace as
long as elected government does not take charge, King Gyanendra has to shoulder the
responsibility of bringing the country back to normalcy. Since he cannot afford to fail in
his mission, we can be assured that a lasting peace will return to the troubled country
soon. All we can do is pray to Lord Pashupatinath to grant him wisdom and requisite
strength. n |
