Region / country
period from
to
116 results found
Items 1 - 50 of 116
Nepal
| 1 May 2013
Four major parties Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) (UCPN (M)), Madhesi Morcha, Nepali Congress (NC) and Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist, UML) informally postponed elections to new Constituent Assembly planned for June to November. Breakaway Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-M) rejected call for talks with High Level Political Committee (HLPC) comprising 4 major parties that oversees Interim Election Council of Ministers. CPN-M 7 April enforced nationwide strike demanding govt’s resignation. Federal Democratic Forum, alliance of Madhesi parties outside Morcha and fringe janajati parties 21 April presented 13-point demands to govt; demanded HLPC disbandment, Interim Election Council Chairman Khil Raj Regmi’s resignation as chief justice. Madhesi and janajati parties opposed proposed threshold of 1% of total votes for parties to win proportional representation seats as too high. Integration of ex-Maoist combatants into Nepal Army officially completed 12 April.
Nepal
| 1 Apr 2013
Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist), Madhesi Morcha, Nepali Congress and Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) 13 March agreed on election deal. Chief Justice Khil Raj Regmi appointed Chairman of Interim Election Council of Ministers, composed of former bureaucrats and overseen by political committee of 4 major parties. June election date expected but govt has until 15 Dec to conduct polls. Deal also resolved dispute over ranks of former Maoist combatants now in Nepal Army, suspended controversial general amnesty clause in Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bill. Breakaway Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-M) and 18 smaller parties 14 March enforced nationwide strike opposing interim election govt. CPN-M obstructed voter registration, threatened poll boycott. Some Madhesi parties, ethnic indigenous groups opposed reduction of proportional representation seats, demanded fresh delineation of constituencies. Some rights groups said Regmi must step down as chief justice.
Nepal
| 1 Mar 2013
Ruling Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) (UCPN(M)), Madhesi Morcha, opposition Nepali Congress (NC) and Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) (UML) 16 Feb agreed proposal allowing govt led by Supreme Court Chief Justice (CJ) Khil Raj Regmi to hold elections for new Constituent Assembly 5 June; Regmi agreed 25 Feb. Supreme Court 25 Feb referred proposal to special bench; hearing scheduled for 7 March. Sections of NC, UML, Nepal Bar Association opposed proposal citing violation of separation of powers, weakening of judiciary; Madhesi and ethnic groups also objected citing lack of consultation. Breakaway Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-M) 19 Feb enforced nationwide strike against CJ-led govt proposal, threatened poll boycott. UCPN(M) held national congress 2-8 Feb, formalised doctrinal shift to unarmed parliamentary politics. IEDs reportedly planted by new CPN-Maoist (Revolutionary) in 4 districts defused 26 Feb.
Nepal
| 1 Feb 2013
Deadlock between parties persisted; some anti-govt protests during month. President Ram Baran Yadav 15 Jan stopped setting deadlines for parties on consensus PM candidate. With no elected legislature to appoint replacements, Supreme Court down to 6 judges after another judge’s term expired 21 Jan; last 2 election commissioners retired 10 Jan. Breakaway Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist held national congress 9-15 Jan; agreed on urban-centric “people’s revolt” instead of “people’s war”. 9 Maoist cadres charged 28 Jan for 2004 kidnapping and murder of journalist Dekendra Thapa in Dailekh district. Supreme Court 18 Jan charged PM Bhattarai and Attorney General Mukti Pradhan with contempt for obstructing investigation, PM denied responsibility. 50 injured in Maoist-opposition clashes during PM’s visit to Dailekh. Col. Kumar Lama 3 Jan arrested in UK on charges of wartime torture; Nepal govt protested, demanded release; UK court denied bail. Proposed Truth and Reconciliation Bill remains controversial.
Nepal
| 30 Dec 2012
Following pressure from major parties, President Yadav 24 Dec extended for 6th time deadline for parties to agree on PM candidate to lead national unity govt, but still no consensus. Opposition Nepali Congress (NC) 5 Dec announced party President Sushil Koirala as PM candidate. PM Bhattarai called for opposition to join current govt before NC-led govt can be formed. Federal Democratic Republican Alliance led by ruling Maoist-Madhesi coalition 25 Dec proposed reinstating collapsed Constituent Assembly to promulgate new constitution or make legal and constitutional amendments necessary for elections. Election Commission 24 Dec claimed it needs at least 120 days for electoral preparations.
Nepal
| 1 Dec 2012
President Yadav 23 Nov called on parties to agree on PM candidate to lead national unity govt by 29 Nov; decision welcomed by opposition Nepali Congress (NC), Communist Party of Nepal-UML (CPN-UML), but deemed “unconstitutional” by cabinet and ruling Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) (UCPN(M)). Following request by major parties, President Yadav 29 Nov extended deadline by a week. Govt rescheduled elections set for 22 Nov to Apr-May 2013. Two-thirds budget for remainder of fiscal year approved 20 Nov by President Yadav despite lack of consensus, drawing criticism from opposition. Supreme Court 21 Nov demanded written explanation from President Yadav for delay in approving govt ordinances on education, health, civil service and transitional justice. Former UML ethnic janajati leaders 22 Nov formed Federal Socialist Party Nepal to advocate for identity-based federalism. Former Maoist combatants 21 Nov formally joined Nepal Army. Cross-party special committee for integration and rehabilitation 21 Nov recommended govt form 4,171-strong non-combat general directorate for ex-combatants.
Nepal
| 1 Nov 2012
Parties missed 16 Oct deadline to settle political impasse through consensus, committed to new mid-Nov deadline. Most major parties now favour election of new Constituent Assembly (CA); President Yadav 28 Oct also encouraged elections. Parties still disagree on composition of govt; opposition parties insist PM Baburam Bhattarai step down. 36 indigenous leaders who quit Nepali Congress (NC) and over 500 ethnic leaders who quit Communist Party of Nepal-UML (CPN-UML) discussing forming new party. 7 Madhesi, indigenous parties 1 Oct formed Federal Democratic Forum-Nepal to promote Madhesi and indigenous issues. OHCHR 8 Oct published report on alleged human rights violations during civil war, released Transitional Justice Reference Archive on conflict-related incidents; govt dismissed report as “irrelevant”. Supreme Court asked govt to explain decision to promote Col Raju Basnet to Brigadier General after allegations of his involvement in torture, forced disappearance of Maoists during civil war.
Nepal
| 1 Oct 2012
Ruling coalition members – Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) (UCPN(M)), United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF) – and main opposition Nepali Congress (NC), Communist Party of Nepal UML 19 Sept agreed to hold elections for new body to draft constitution. For earlier spring 2013 election date, parties must agree by Nov on composition of govt that will hold elections, whether polls will be for new constituent assembly or parliament, and whether electoral system has to be amended. Some suggestions of “neutral” or “non-political” PM if parties unable to agree on leadership of new unity govt before election. Breakaway Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-M) threatened armed revolt if 70-point list of demands submitted to PM Bhattarai 10 Sept is ignored. PM Bhattarai 8 Sept warned of street protests against President Yadav if he does not endorse pending ordinances on education, health, civil service, truth and reconciliation commission. 13 opposition parties including NC, UML, CPN-M 24 Sept reiterated demand for PM Bhattarai’s resignation, threatened street protests. 1,388 former Maoist combatants qualified for integration into Nepal Army; further 75 undergoing tests for officer positions. Gen. Gaurav Rana appointed Nepal Army chief. U.S. State Dept removed Maoists from list of terrorist organizations.
Nepal
| 1 Sep 2012
President Yadav 17 Aug rejected govt ordinances on Nov Constituent Assembly elections due to lack of cross-party consensus. Govt 23 Aug extended Special Committee for Supervision, Integration and Rehabilitation of Maoist combatants for 3 months. Ruling coalition Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) (UCPN-M), United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF) members, Madhesi parties, smaller ethnic parties 15 Aug formed Federal Democratic Republican Alliance (FDRA) to support identity-based federalism. Main opposition Nepali Congress (NC), Unified Marxist-Leninist (UML) started internal party discussions on federalism. Breakaway Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-M-Baidya) parties 10 Aug formed alliance to oust govt. Youth wing of UML called transport strikes 5-7 Aug to demand PM Bhattarai’s resignation. Nepali Congress leader Khadka sentenced 14 Aug to 18 months prison for corruption. Human rights groups 31 Aug urged President Yadav to reject ordinance permitting amnesty for crimes committed during 1996-2006 civil war.
Nepal
| 1 Aug 2012
Govt missed 22 July deadline to amend electoral provisions; all-party agreement on elections remains elusive. Nepali Congress district presidents 31 July endorsed document considering new parliamentary elections as best option to end current political crisis. Govt 15 July announced partial budget through ordinance despite opposition criticism, demands PM Bhattarai resign. Maoist combatants 6 July boycotted screening for army integration claiming unfair entry standards. Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) 21 July announced investigations into alleged financial irregularities; protests, factionalism 17-21 July disrupted party’s seventh plenum. Student wing of breakaway Mohan Baidya-led Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPM-N) 16, 23 July vandalised Kathmandu, Sunsari schools, buses for charging high fees, having “foreign” names. CPM-N 29 July called for intensified anti-govt protests. Ruling coalition member Madhesi Janadhikar Forum (Ganatantrik) split 1 July. Nepali Congress leader Govinda Raj Joshi sentenced 25 July to 18 months jail for corruption.
Nepal
| 1 Jul 2012
Unified Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (UCPN-M) 18 June split; dissident Mohan Baidya ‘Kiran’ faction formed new party, Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist. Madhesi People’s Rights Forum-Democratic split 10 June following resignation of 10 members. Opposition protested PM Baburam Bhattarai’s call for November elections to new Constituent Assembly (CA), including in mass meeting. Reinstatement of CA being floated by various actors. Committee 15 June announced investigation into 31 May murder of Supreme Court judge.
Nepal
| 1 Jun 2012
Constituent Assembly (CA) dissolved after political parties 27 May failed to promulgate new constitution. PM Baburam Bhattarai announced new CA elections for 22 Nov; main opposition Nepali Congress denounced decision as unconstitutional; 30 May said intends to topple government through protests. Supreme Court 24 May stayed govt and opposition proposal to extend CA’s term by 3 months, upholding Nov 2011 verdict offering 3 options: state of emergency, fresh elections, other agreed-upon alternative. Run-up to CA deadline saw shutdowns from identity-based groups, including 20-day strike in west. Some attacks on media in 20-22 May strike called by indigenous umbrella organisation rejecting 15 May deal between parties for not recognising ethnic identity, 52 arrested. 4 killed 1 May in Janakpur after IED attack by Madhesi armed group. Supreme Court judge under investigation for corruption shot dead 31 May, Kathmandu.
Nepal
| 1 May 2012
Special Committee for Supervision Integration and Rehabilitation of Maoist combatants 11 April handed command of cantonments holding 9,700 former Maoist combatants over to Nepalese Army; 14 April endorsed seven-point agreement outlining formation of integration selection committees, training period, bridge course and directorates. Second phase of combatant regrouping concluded 20 April: over 6,500 retired voluntarily, 3,100 to join Nepalese Army. Leaders from major parties continued negotiations on constitutional issues including forms of governance and state restructuring, increasing hopes for broad political agreement. Rift within Maoist party continued: anti-establishment faction led by Mohan Baidya ‘Kiran’ formed parallel structures, 24 April re-established People’s Volunteer’s Bureau, meant to replicate Young Communist League and accommodate former fighters. Both federalists and anti-federalists organised several rallies and strikes across country to pressure major parties during negotiations. 4 killed, 18 wounded 30 April in bomb blast in Janakpur. Bombs planted by disillusioned Maoist cadres found, defused 4 April in buses, bus parks around Kathmandu.
Nepal
| 1 Apr 2012
Supreme Court 28 March refused to review Nov 2011 verdict disallowing further extension of Constituent Assembly term beyond current end on 27 May. Maoist and Nepali Congress leaders neared resolution on peace process and constitutional issues including integration of Maoist combatants into Nepal Army. Govt 10 March began closing 13 of 28 cantonments housing Maoist combatants. Leaders from major parties continued negotiations on state restructuring, form of govt. Rift within Maoist party widened: dissident faction argued that leadership of Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal and PM Baburam Bhattarai has compromised core party goals; faction formed alliance with fringe parties and identity-based groups, called for timely delivery of constitution including identity-based federalism; Madhesi parties and identity-based groups threatened mobilisation if not incorporated. PM Baburam Bhattarai 23, 26 March sacked two Madhesi ministers for alleged malpractice and involvement in corruption.
Nepal
| 1 Mar 2012
Bomb exploded 27 Feb near govt office in Kathmandu killing at least 3; United Ethnic Liberation Front reportedly claimed responsibility. Govt 3 Feb began releasing, reintegrating 7,365 former Maoist fighters marking progress in peace process; 9 Feb acquiesced to opposition demands to scrap plans to legalise war-time land deals, ending parliamentary deadlock. Communications Minister and leader of Madeshi People’s Rights Forum party 21 Feb convicted of corruption sentenced to 18 months jail.
Nepal
| 1 Feb 2012
Opposition Nepali Congress 9 Jan accused ruling Maoists of attempting to establish dictatorship following demand for directly elected president vested with wide executive powers; Maoists warned guerrilla integration will halt if demands not met. Maoist hardline leader Mohan Vidya 8 Jan opposed guerrilla disarmament, integration into armed forces, govt plan to return property seized during civil war, accused party leadership of betraying principles; senior Maoist 29 Jan ruled out scrapping legalisation of civil-war era land transactions. Maoists 15 Jan set priorities as completing constitution and enduring dignified integration of Maoist combatants.
Nepal
| 2 Jan 2012
Opposition Nepali Congress Party (NC) 1 Dec rejected request by PM Bhattarai to allow additional 2,500 former Maoist fighters to integrate into army. 9 eastern districts closed by strikes mid-Dec as local council, ethnic groups demanded more rights, representation in constitution. 16 protestors detained in Kathmandu 19 Dec during second national strike over prison death of NC youth leader. FM Barshaman Pun 11 Dec said new constitution will be promulgated within 6 months following 29 Nov extension of Constituent Assembly.
Nepal
| 1 Dec 2011
Leaders of 4 main parties 1 Nov agreed to integrate one third of former Maoist rebels into army, give money to others, removing major stumbling block to constitution writing. Constituent Assembly term extended 29 Nov; state restructuring commission formed, though decisions expected to be politically motivated. Supreme Court 23 Nov opposed Cabinet recommendation for pardon for Maoist MP Bal Krishna Dhungel. 22 Nov bomb attack on Christian NGO United Mission to Nepal and 28 Nov bomb attempt on Kathmandu church by Hindu fundamentalist group sparked fears for security of religious minorities.
Nepal
| 1 Nov 2011
PM Baburam Bhattarai made 4-day state visit to India, representing significant thaw in Maoist-India relations. Despite criticisms of govt by opposition UML and some in Maoist party, negotiations on future of Maoist combatants continued between Bhattarai, Maoist chairman Prachanda and Nepali Congress.
Nepal
| 1 Oct 2011
New PM Bhattarai urged major opposition parties Nepali Congress (NC) and Madhesi Janadhikar Forum (MJF)-Nepal to join govt; 16 Sept in first public address said nation has reached “last chance” for peace, called for political cooperation, 28 Sept threatened resignation if no progress. Self-imposed 45-day deadline to proceed on integration, rehabilitation of Maoist army combatants unlikely to be met; conflicts remain within all major parties. Section of United Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (UCPN-M), NC and United Marxist Leninist Party criticised March power sharing deal between Madhesi and Maoist parties; Defence Minister Bhandari sparked row by allegedly warning that Tarai districts could secede if their concerns not addressed.
Nepal
| 1 Sep 2011
PM Jhalanath Khanal (UML) 14 Aug resigned after 7 months in office under pressure from own party and opposition, following failure to reach agreement on integration and rehabilitation of over 19,000 former Maoist rebels. Maoist leader Baburam Bhattarai voted new PM with support of Madhesi parties; second and third largest parties, Nepali Congress and UML, in opposition. Term of Constituent Assembly extended until 30 Nov.
Nepal
| 1 Aug 2011
Opposition Nepali Congress (NC) 25 July blocked parliament to protest Maoist demands for cabinet reshuffle. NC claimed PM Khanal had reneged on May promise to resign; Khanal said will only resign when consensus govt formed. Maoists 30 July threatened to leave coalition govt if Khanal does not appoint 19 Maoist cabinet ministers, but later withdrew threat following meeting with Khanal.
Nepal
| 1 Jul 2011
Fresh doubts over Constituent Assembly’s ability to complete constitution by Aug after parties 20 June failed to meet deadline on plan for integrating former Maoist combatants into National Army. Negotiations stalled and sharp disagreements within Maoist party.
Nepal
| 1 Jun 2011
Potential political crisis averted in short-term after all parties 29 May agreed to extend Constituent Assembly by 3 months, originally due to expire 28 May. Deal included commitment to progress on “main parts” of peace process, release of draft constitution, resignation of PM Khanal by new 28 Aug deadline. Differences over interpretation began immediately, including on when PM Khanal should resign in favour of consensus govt. Largest opposition party Nepali Congress (NC) originally opposed extension, pushing for Maoist agreement on integration and rehabilitation of Maoist fighters, handover of their weapons. Negotiations on more detailed deal fell through due to last-minute demands by Madhesi parties and differences within NC. UNSG Ban praised deal, urged parties to complete peace process by new deadline. UN OHCHR 6 May condemned appointment of Maoist Agni Sapkota as minister of information and communications, suspected of kidnapping, murder during civil war; Sapkota denied charges.
Nepal
| 1 May 2011
Madhesi Janadhikar Forum-Nepal, largest party from Tarai plains, 31 March agreed to join new UML-led govt. UNSG Ban 29 Apr urged all parties to ensure completion of new constitution before 28 May deadline. Newly-appointed Energy Minister Gokarna Bista (UML party) survived assassination attempt 12 Apr in Kathmandu; motives, perpetrators unknown. Indian FM Krishna arrived in Kathmandu 20 Apr for 3-day visit.
Nepal
| 1 Apr 2011
Maoists 5 March agreed to join UML-led govt; power-sharing deal sees Maoists get 11 ministries, but only 4 sworn in by end of month. Supreme Court early month ruled Constituent Assembly’s (CA) May 2010 extension by 1 year constitutional, possibly opening for another CA extension if new constitution not completed by 28 May deadline. Following late-month visit by Chinese army chief General Chen Bingde, China 24 March committed $20mn in military aid to Nepal.
Nepal
| 1 Mar 2011
Step taken towards ending 7-month political deadlock as Constituent Assembly 3 Feb elected Jhalanath Khanal of UML party as new PM, but Khanal still unable to form new govt. Maoist leader Prachandra had earlier agreed to support UML, rescind own candidacy. Khanal 11 Feb named 3 UML ministers to new govt, but yet to form full cabinet as negotiations continue with Maoists over key portfolios.
Nepal
| 1 Feb 2011
Nepal Following UNMIN 15 Jan ending 4-year mission in Nepal, Maoist party 22 Jan formally agreed to place its 19,000 ex-combatants under control of cross-party committee headed by interim PM Madhav Nepal; UN praised as major step forward in peace process. No agreement yet on integration of combatants into state security forces. All parties agreed on new voting procedure to break 7-month political deadlock and elect new PM, making it mandatory for MPs to vote; Constituent Assembly scheduled first round of new PM elections for 3 Feb.
Nepal
| 3 Jan 2011
President Yadav called special parliamentary session for 23 Dec to break 6-month political deadlock in which Constituent Assembly has repeatedly failed to elect new PM, but session postponed. Supreme Court 18 Dec declared it illegal for MPs to abstain or remain neutral in PM vote. UNSG Ban 31 Dec expressed concern about political impasse and stalled peace process, urged all parties to resolve issue of reintegrating ex-Maoist combatants into National Army ahead of 15 Jan UNMIN departure; UNMIN currently monitoring integration process.
Nepal
| 1 Dec 2010
Political crisis continued as Constitutional Assembly again failed to elect new PM during month. Only remaining candidate Ram Chandra Poudel (Nepali Congress) fell short of required majority in face of continued boycott by Maoists and UML; constitution stipulates votes will continue indefinitely as long as there is a candidate standing. President Yadav 20 Nov passed budget, delayed since July, by decree to stave off financial crisis; all CA parties had early month agreed to pass budget, but Maoists 19 Nov reneged on deal, blocked Finance Minister Pandey from entering parliament. UNMIN 19 Nov objected to members of Maoist army (PLA) attending late month party conference, said PLA’s involvement in political gatherings could harm peace process.
Nepal
| 1 Nov 2010
No sign of end to political impasse as Constituent Assembly again failed to pick new PM during month; Nepali Congress candidate Ram Chandra Poudel fell short of required majority in face of continued boycott by Maoists and UML. Finance ministry 18 Oct warned of financial crisis if Maoists continue to block passage of budget.
“Festivities over, Nepal stares at crises”, Sify, 18 Oct. 2010.
For latest report, see Crisis Group Asia Report N°194, Nepal’s Political Rites of Passage, 29 Sept. 2010.
Nepal
| 1 Oct 2010
Political crisis continued as Constituent Assembly (CA) again failed to pick new PM, with neither Maoist leader Prachanda nor Nepali Congress candidate Ram Chandra Poudel winning required majority in 7 Sept vote. Maoists 17 Sept announced Prachanda withdrawing candidacy after agreement with Communist Party. Poudel again failed to gain majority in eighth CA vote 26 Sept, as Maoists and communists abstained, and again in 30 Sept vote. Govt and Maoists 13 Sept agreed integration and rehabilitation of Maoist combatants to be completed within 4 months. UNSC extended UNMIN mandate until 15 Jan 2011, after which mission will leave Nepal.
Nepal
| 1 Sep 2010
Country still without effective govt after Constituent Assembly failed to pick new PM in 6 and 23 Aug votes; neither Maoist leader Prachanda nor Nepali Congress party candidate Ram Chandra Poudel won required majority as UML and alliance of 4 Tarai-based parties continued to abstain and call for consensus govt. UNMIN 4 Aug expressed “deep concern” over early month moves by both Nepalese Army and Maoists to recruit new soldiers, in breach of 2006 peace agreement.
Nepal
| 1 Aug 2010
Political crisis continued as Constituent Assembly 23 July for 2nd time failed to pick new PM following ex-PM Madhav Nepal’s late June resignation: neither Maoist leader Prachanda nor NC party candidate Ram Chandra Paudel won required majority of votes. UML and alliance of 4 Tarai-based parties abstained, called for consensus govt; new vote scheduled for 2 Aug.
Nepal
| 1 Jul 2010
PM Madhav Nepal resigned 30 June to “end political stalemate and move peace process forward”; successor unclear, but unity govt including all CA parties likely. Maoists had during month accused PM Nepal of reneging on late May deal to resign; 21 June said will block passing of new budget (16 July deadline) unless he leaves post. PM Nepal accused Maoists of stalling peace process in resignation speech.
Nepal
| 1 Jun 2010
Maoists 28 May backed parliamentary bill to extend term of Constituent Assembly for 1 year; PM Madhav Nepal in return reportedly agreed to resign, opening up for new unity govt including Maoists. But political deadlock remained late-month as Maoists 31 May warned of “serious crisis” if PM does not resign within “promised” 5 days; Nepal said he will only resign if Maoists first disband own army, return property captured during civil war. Early month saw heightened unrest as estimated 150,000 Maoist supporters rallied in Kathmandu 1 May demanding coalition govt be replaced by Maoist-led govt. Maoists held general strike 2-7 May shutting down transport, schools, businesses; occasional clashes between protesters and merchants, residents attempting to break strike; estimated 20,000 rallied against the strike in Kathmandu. UNSC 12 May extended UNMIN mandate by 4 months.
Nepal
| 1 May 2010
Tensions rose over formation of new unity govt, constitution: political confrontation likely, but impending 28 May constitution deadline could encourage last-minute power-sharing deal. Ruling CPN-UML party 15 Apr admitted impossible to complete new charter by 28 May deadline; PM Madhav Nepal called for extension of at least 6 months. CPN-UML, NC agree with Maoists on formation of new unity govt; but disagreement on the position of PM: Maoists continued calls for PM Nepal’s resignation and own leader Prachanda to head new govt. Maoists 26 Apr announced “indefinite” nationwide strike from 2 May in protest against govt; 1 May staged 150,000-strong anti-govt demonstration in Kathmandu, largest protests since leaving govt. Controversy over army integration continued: Maoists 16 Apr rejected govt’s offer of reintegrating only 3,000 of total 19,600 ex-Maoist combatants into National Army.
Nepal
| 1 Apr 2010
Ex-PM Koirala, widely seen as key leader in negotiations between parties, died 20 March; Maoist leader Prachanda said death an “irreparable loss” to peace process. Govt 9 March again amended constitutional timetable; highly unlikely final draft will be ready by 28 May deadline. Army chief Gen. Gurung 11 March said will not admit Maoist soldiers into national army “en masse”; Maoists criticised as breach of peace agreement. UN 11 March said “disappointed and concerned” with slow progress of peace process. Unidentified gunmen 2 March killed independent newspaper publisher in Janakpur; in Kathmandu, hundreds of journalists protested deteriorating security for media workers 3 March. Ex-King Gyanendra 25 March said he still believes monarchy can be restored.
Nepal
| 1 Mar 2010
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| Royalist RPP-Nepal party launched general strike 22 Feb in Kathmandu, Bkaktapur and Lalitpur, demanding plebiscite on reinstatement of monarchy; 1st royalist strike since monarchy abolished 2008, no violence reported. VP Jha sworn in 7 Feb after taking oath in Nepali and Maithili languages; Supreme Court Aug ruled his previous oath in Hindi unconstitutional. Senior NC party leader 19 Feb said NC will create own paramilitary force if violence by Maoists does not stop. Maoists 20 Feb rejected Indian claims that Maoist leader Prachanda had met with Indian Maoist leader Kobad Ghandy.
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Nepal
| 1 Feb 2010
| Maoists called off threatened nation-wide strikes after govt 8 Jan set up high-level political mechanism to “speed up” peace process and drafting of new constitution; panel made up of NC party president Girija Prasad Koirala, Maoist leader “Prachanda”, CPN-UML party chairman Jhalanath Khanal. Month-long UN-monitored process of releasing 4,000 disqualified Maoist combatants, including 3,000 child soldiers, from cantonments started 7 Jan. Supreme Court 22 Jan approved promotion of officer accused of overseeing rights abuses during civil war to army second-in-command. UNSC 21 Jan extended UNMIS mandate by 4 months to 15 May.
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Nepal
| 1 Jan 2010
Tensions between govt and Maoists increased as Maoists called 3-day general strike across Nepal from 20 Dec, paralysing business, infrastructure in largest protests since leaving govt in May; UN OHCHR said police used “excessive force” in Kathmandu clashes with Maoist protestors. Maoist leader Prachanda 22 Dec threatened indefinite resumption of strike if new unity govt not formed before 24 Jan; PM Madhav Nepal rejected demands, but said open to including Maoists in his cabinet. Maoists declared 13 districts as “autonomous states”; govt rejected as unconstitutional. Earlier, Maoists called 6 Dec general strike after at least 3 killed in 4 Dec clashes between police and illegal forest squatters in Kailali District. UN 16 Dec said some 4,000 disqualified Maoist combatants held in UN cantonments, including 3,000 child soldiers, to be released from 7 Jan.
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Nepal
| 1 Dec 2009
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| Maoists launched largest anti-govt street protests since May resignation from govt, blocking infrastructure, access to ministries during 1st half of month; occasional violent clashes with police. Maoists still demand apology for President Yadav blocking ex-army chief General Katwal’s dismissal May; leader Prachanda 8 Nov said Maoists may declare ”parallel govt” if demands for “civilian supremacy” over army not met. Prachanda called off protests 13 Nov and allowed passage of budget, but as talks with govt faltered 21 Nov called for month-long resumption, including 3-day Dec general strike. U.S., EU 20 Nov expressed “concern” over protests, slow progress on peace process.
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Nepal
| 1 Nov 2009
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| UNMIN late month expressed concern over national army’s (NA) continued recruitment, said violated peace agreement (CPA); Maoists protested FM Bhandari 7 Oct asking parliament to amend CPA to allow more NA troops. Govt 11 Oct relaunched UN-led discharge process of 4,000 disqualified Maoist combatants from Maoist cantonment. Govt unable to pass budget as Maoists continued blockade of parliament; Finance Minister Pandey 23 Oct said govt unable to pay ministers, security forces until situation resolved. Maoists late month announced 15-day nationwide protests from 1 Nov, threatening severe non-violent disruption.
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Nepal
| 1 Oct 2009
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| Tens of thousands of Maoist supporters held anti-govt protests throughout month, including at least 15,000 in Kathmandu 11 Sept; sporadic violence in clashes with police. 3 killed in 6 Sept blast; police 7 Sept arrested 3 members of Hindu militant NDA, including alleged leader. Govt early month declared VP Jha as “inactive” in position, took away his state privileges after he refused to retake oath of office in Nepali; Supreme Court Aug ruled earlier oath in Hindi invalid.
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Nepal
| 1 Sep 2009
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| Govt 9 Aug appointed Gen. Gurung as acting Army Chief after Gen. Katwal formally retired; Maoists previously disrupted parliament 7 Aug, threatened street protests over govt failure to resolve row over Katwal’s position. PM Madhav Nepal in first visit to India late month, 22 Aug announced new bilateral trade agreements. Police 24 Aug arrested 19 armed ex-Maoist soldiers outside of cantonments in Kapilvastu district; UN expressed “serious concern” over soldiers leaving cantonments with weapons. Supreme Court 24 Aug ruled VP Jha faces sack “within a week” if he does not retake oath of office in Nepali, ruled his earlier oath in Hindi invalid; Jha 30 Aug refused to attend new swearing in ceremony.
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Nepal
| 1 Aug 2009
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| UN-led discharge process of 4,000 disqualified Maoist combatants from Maoist cantonment sites started 17 July, discussions ongoing. Constituent Assembly (CA) proceedings resumed 6 July after Maoist agreement with Nepali Congress, CPN-UML; had been suspended since dispute over President’s role in May army sacking. Maoists 27 July agreed to join “high-level political mechanism” to support CA, peace process. UNHCR 7 July raised concerns with Defence Ministry about promotion of Nepal Army officer following “serious and credible” allegations of human rights violations during conflict. 4 Tarai armed groups leaders killed 18-22 July, 3 reportedly by police. UNMIN mandate extended to Jan 2010, OHCHR to June 2010 on 23 July.
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Nepal
| 1 Jul 2009
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| Tarai-based Madhesi Janadhikar Forum (MJF) party split in 2 factions following 4 June appointment of MJF’s BK Gachchhadar as Deputy PM in govt. Anti-Gachchhadar MJF Chairman Upendra Yadav 5 June withdrew his opposing faction’s support to govt. 13 June coalition partners CPN-UML, NC and MJF (Gachchhadar faction) agreed Cabinet portfolio deal. Cabinet 18 June reversed earlier Maoist-led govt decision to sack army chief Katawal; Maoists disrupted Constitutional Assembly proceeding in protest.
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| For background, see Crisis Group Asia Report N°163, Nepal’s Faltering Peace Process, 19 February 2009
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Nepal
| 1 Jun 2009
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| Political crisis escalated with resignation of Maoist PM Prachanda 4 May, after President Yadav overturned 3 May cabinet decision to sack Army Chief Gen. Katwal, ordered him to stay. Maoists 4 May launched street protests against president’s move, resigned from govt; Prachanda 6 May said Maoists still committed to peace process. Maoists 5 May decided to obstruct parliament until president apologised to House. MJF party 17 May joined new 22-party NC-UML-led coalition; UML veteran Madhav Nepal elected new PM 23 May. 5 May controversy after Jan 2008 Prachanda video footage leaked, shown admitting plan of inflating Maoist army size during UN-led verification; NC party 10 May called for re-verification of Maoist combatants. 3 killed, 14 injured in 23 May bomb blast in church near capital; little-known Hindu extremist group suspected.
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| For background, see Crisis Group Asia Report N°163, Nepal’s Faltering Peace Process, 19 February 2009.
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Nepal
| 1 May 2009
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| Conflict between govt and Nepal Army (NA) escalated: NA Chief Gen. Katwal 21 Apr denied defying govt authority, escaped immediate sacking due to coalition disagreements, international pressure; but Maoist govt still determined to remove Katwal. NA strongly denied 26 Apr rumours of planned coup. NA 7 Apr pulled out of most events at National Games, protesting late decision to include Maoist Army. Parliament paralysed for 2 weeks until 15 Apr as opposition accused Maoists of failure to honour past agreements, arrest Maoist-linked criminals. Maoists won 3 out of 6 seats in 10 Apr by-elections. Shutdown across the Tarai by Tharu activists since 22 April.
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| For background, see Crisis Group Asia Report N°163, Nepal’s Faltering Peace Process, 19 February 2009.
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Nepal
| 1 Apr 2009
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| Little progress on army integration: in response to national army recruitment, Maoist army 2 March called for applicants to fill thousands of vacant positions in its own ranks. Supreme Court ordered both armies to halt new recruitment, Maoists stopped 10 March. Defence Minister Thapa 16 March ordered 8 army generals to retire, but Supreme Court 25 March halted order. During 19 March visit to Nepal, UNHCHR Navi Pillay called for justice for war victims, end to impunity. Tharu ethnic group strike from 2 March parlysed Tarai region; called off 14 March after govt agreed to replace term ‘Madhesh’ with ‘Tarai-Madhesh’ in interim constitution.
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