Nepal Today

2009-11-16T09:19:00.000-08:00

Prachanda Singapore bound

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 16 Nov: Maoist Chairman Prachanda flew to Singapore on a two-day visit for a meeting with ailing Nepali Congress President Girija Prasad Koirala.
It wasn’t certain whether he flew to the island republic for crucial political a; discussion with Koirala or for internal party reasons.
He’s accompanied by Foreign Department Chief Krishna Bahadur Mahara.
Prachanda said he will hold discussions with Koirala at a hospital but added he will promote party activities with activists in Singapore before emplaming.
Prachanda flew to Singapore Monday as the party tried to break a six-month deadlock with ruling parties.
Discussions were held with Maoists, Nepali Congress and CPN-UML leaders throughout Monday to break a deadlock.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“The government should persuade UNMIM not to make unnecessary comments on internal matters.”

(Former Home Minister Krishna Prasad Shitaula, newsfront, 16 Nov.)

‘Rule of law is exception rather than the rule. And shamefully, the lawmakers break it the most,.)

(Bonod P. Bista. Newsfront, 16 Nov.)
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2009-11-15T21:23:00.001-08:00

Maoists will resume disruption of parliament

Kathmandu, 16 Nov: Maoists will resume disruption of parliament Monday when it meets.
Maoists didn’t disrupt proceedings Sunday for the first time in five months to allow passage of a motion condoling the death of former Nepali Congress Law Minister Tek Bahadur Chokhyal Friday.
Maoists are demanding discussing a censure motion in the legislature condemning ceremonial President Dr Ram Baran Yadav for ‘unconstitutionally’ retaining sacked Army Chief Gen Rukmangud Katawal.
Ruling parties argue a ceremonial president can do no wrong.
The ceremonial president acted at the request of 18 political parties against th spirit of the third popular president that installed a power prime minister.
Maoists charge ruling parties are attempting to create a parallel power center around the head of state after they lost the 10 April 2008 constitutional assembly elections to Maoists that emerged as the biggest political party.
Maoists have given government until Friday to meet demands threatening to launch another round of protests to replace the government of Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal if demands aren’t met.
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PM Nepal attending office from Monday

Kathmandu, 16 Nov: Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal will attend office Monday.
He was recuperating from viral fever at his official Baluwatar residence for six days and even cancelled a scheduled visit of Italy to attend a FAO conference in Rome.
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Matrika Yadav Maoists call

Kathmandu, 16 Nov: A strike called by the Matrika Prasad Yadav’s Maoist faction has disrupted normal life in the terai Monday.
Six vehicles were damaged in arson attacks in Sunsari.
The strike has affected mainly districts in the east and central terai.
Nine Yadav activists pushing the strike were arrested in Biratnagar Monday.
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Home Minister Rawal’s India visit suddenly cancelled

Kathmandu, 16 Nov: Home Minister Bhim Rawal’s India visit that was scheduled to begin Tuesday has been suddenly cancelled, Rajdhani reports.
He was scheduled to visit India for three days with top security officials.
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PM Nepal, Nemwang discussions

Kathmandu, 16 Nov: Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal held discussions with Chairman Subash Nemwang for nearly 45 minutes Monday.
They discussed prolonged obstruction of house proceedings by Maoists.
Three biggest ruling parties, Nepali Congress and LMJF leaders are also holding discussions at Baluwatar to find an outlet to the political deadlock. nnnn

India suggests wire fencing open Nepal-India border

Kathmandu, 16 Nov: India’s Seema Surakshya Bal (SSB) has proposed fencing the open 1,800 km Nepal-India border to the central government, Kantipur reports.
SSB has been deployed nine battalions every seven to 12 km along the border.
According to a senior Indian political source, the central government in May 2009 has proposed sealing the border and erecting security towers around sensitive areas.
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Former king visiting India

Kathmandu, 16 Nov: Former King Gyanendra and Queen Komal
are flying for New Delhi 6 December, Jana Bhawana reports.
During their two-day stay in the Indian capital, the former king is meeting Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress I President Sonia Gandhi and some diplomats.
They then fly for Bhubaneshwor, Orissa, for the marriage of a relative.
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Severe petrol shortage

Kathmandu, 16 Nov: There’s a severe shortage of petrol in the Valley where it is being distributed through government pumps only.
For several days motorcyclists have been queuing up for hours at petrol pumps for oil.
The situation is expected to ease from Tuesday, officials said.
Petrol is being loaded in tankers across the border in Raxaul Monday after Nepali officials on strike since resumed work Sunday.
Officials in Bara and Parsa were protesting the excess of a woman minister from the terai.
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Dress code at president’s office

Kathmandu, 16 Nov: The President’s Office has made dress code mandatory for all its staff and security personnel, The Kathmandu Post reports.
“As desired by President Dr Ram Baran Yadav, black Bhadgaule cap has become compulsory for all staff at the office on any occasion If there is any function or ceremony at the office, all staff should be dressed in daura-surwal and black Bhadagaule cap. For regular office wear, grey suit and blue shirt has been prescribed,” said Baman Prasad Neupane, Secretary at the President’s Office.
The government has provided a separate fund of Rs 14,000 a year to those who work at the President’s and Vice-President’s Office, No other government employee gets such an allowance.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“Why shouldn’t they [officials] be beaten? They’ve been deputed in Birgung by the minister to earn money.”

(Matrika Prasad Yadav, Rajdhani, 16 Nov.)

“This government has failed. A new national government should be formed to draft a new constitution.

(MJF Chairman Upendra Yadav, Annapurna Post, 16 Nov.)

“The government has compulsion to approve the budget on time. But the ongoing political deadlock has forced the government to seek other alternatives to get the budget endorsed.”

(Government Spokesman Shanker Pokhrel, The Rising Nepal, 16 Nov.)

“The kind of queuing up to go to our neighbour [India] for blessings or sympathy has scarred our foreign policy conduct.)

(Dr Bhek Bahadur Thapa, The Kathmandu Post, 16 Nov.)

‘We made him a ceremonial president; but he [Dr Ram Baran Yadav] has become an executive president.”

(Maoist leader Ishwor Dahal, Jana Bhawana, 16 Nov.)

“We demanded the government and the UN representatives to give land on lease for apple farming or 4,000 cows to the disqualified combatants as rehabilitation package.”

(Maoist politburo member Janardhan Sharma, Republica, 16 Nov.)
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2009-11-15T09:31:00.001-08:00

Russian killed in chopper crash

Kathmandu, 15 Nov: A Russian flight engineer died in a Russian helicopter accident in Humla Sunday.
Three crew members and two passengers of the cargo chopper were injured in the accident.
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Maoists hold political consultations

Kathmandu, 15 Nov: Maoist Vice-chairman Narayan Kaji Shrestha
Sunday held discussions with Prime Minister Madhab Kumar Nepal and Nepali Congress Vice-chairman Ram Chandra Paudel to end a five-month political impasse before beginning a third round of Moaist anti-government protests Friday.
There was no breakthrough.
Chairman Prachanda held discussions with Bhaktapur communist leader Narayanman Bijukakchya Saturday to find a solution.
Meanwhile, RPP leader and former Prime Minister Lokndra Bahadur Chand said Sunday,” Nobody will be able to handle the situation” is a new constitution isn’t drafted by the 28 May 2010 deadline.
He ruled out the return of ousted monarchy.
Four of 11 subject committees failed to submit their proposals for a proposed constitution by a deadline Sunday.
The failure means the schedule to draft a proposed a constitution will have to be rescheduled for the seventh time.
Fundamental differences on a proposed constitution are there between major political players.

Officials resume work in Bara, Parsa

Kathmandu, 15 Nov: District officials resumed work in Bara and Parsa Sunday after six days of protests.
They threatened protests will resume protests in five days if action isn’t taken against Agriculture State Minister Karima Begum for assaulting Parsa CDO Durga Bhandari.
Begun is moving around freely in the capital despite arrest warrant issued against her.
This is an indication politicians are beyond the law in the country.
Assaulting a government is a serious crime.
The minister claimed the official touched her body against Muslim tradition.
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2009-11-14T20:48:00.000-08:00

Health check-up of Girija begins in Singapore

Kathmandu, 15 Nov: Health check-up of Girija Prasad Koirala began at a hospital in Singapore.
The Nepali Congress president and five-time prime minister was flown to the island republic Saturday in an air ambulance for the examination.
Koirala suffers chronic lung problem.
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2009-11-13T20:38:00.001-08:00

Girija flies to Singapore for treatment

Kathmandu, 14 Nov: Five-time prime minister and President of Nepali Congress Girija Prasad Koirala, 86, flew for Singapore Saturday for treatment of a chronic lung ailment.
He flew there by special air ambulance.
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15 swine flu cases recorded in Pokhara

Kathmandu, 14 Nov: Fifteen swine flu cases have been recorded in the resort town of Pokhara, health officials have said.
The cases were reported with the onset of winter and the peak tourist season.
Contagious swine flu was first recorded in the capital.
It was then detected in Chitwan and Parbat in the west.
More than 80 cases have now been reported in Nepal.
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Fresh Maoist ultimatum

Kathmandu, 14 Nov: Maoists have given government a fresh ultimatum to meet their demands by 20 November.
The ultimatum was issued at the end of a two-day seize of Singha Durbar Friday.
They have issued threats of fresh protests if demands aren’t met by then.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

‘I’ll never loose track because I also represent 30 million Nepalis.”

(President Dr Ram BaranYadav, Nagarik, 14 Nov.)
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2009-11-12T20:26:00.001-08:00

Maoists gherao Singha Durbar second day

Kaathmandu, 13 Nov: Maoists Friday morning began their gherao of Singha Durbar or the central secretariat for the second and last day.
The gherao aims to disrupt work at the secretariat; movement of people and vehicles in the inner city has been disrupted.
Top leaders, including Chairman Prachanda, are leading the protests on a chilly morning.
Some ministers and officials entered the secretariat before Maoists assembled.
The second phase of the 13-day anti-government movement calling for the correction of what Maoists call unconstitutional decision of President Dr Ram Baran Yadav to retain sacked Army Chief Gen Rukmangud Katawal ends Friday.
Maoists blamed government for violence that broke out Thursday during the sit-in in which more than 60 persons were injured.
Maoists could announce fresh protests later Friday even as Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal asked the main opposition to sit down for talks.
Home Minister Bhim Rawal said government acted amid restraint Thursday.
Dr baburam Bhattarai Friday morning threatened third phase of th anti-govrnment if there was no agreement.
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Search on for woman minister

Kathmandu, 13 Nov: Parsa district said search was on for a woman state minister who assaulted the district CDO this week.
The district police has asked police in the capital and Lalitpur to arrest State Minister for Agriculture Karima Begum to arrest the minister who assaulted Parsa CDO Durga Prasad Bhandari in his office.
Assaulting a government official is a crime.
Begam’s LMJF is discussing the assault Friday.
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US official in town

Kathmandu, 13 Nov: Sam Witten, US State Department Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration, arrived Wednesday for a two-day visit.
He held discussions of officials at the foreign and home ministries.
Discussions centered around Tibetan and Bhutanese refugees in Nepal.
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Maoists call Jhapa strike

Kathmandu, 13 Nov: Maoists called a strike in Jhapa where President Dr Ram Baran Yadav files later Friday.
The president is scheduled to inaugurate an eye hospital in the eastern district.
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2009-11-12T02:57:00.001-08:00

Clashes break between Maoists, police (Developing Story)

Kathmandu, 12 Nov: Police lobbed teargas shells five hours after a sit-in started as Maoists who attempted to break a police cordon and approach the southern gate of Singha Durbar.
Several dozen Maoists, including lawmakers were injured in clashes at two points.
Maoists hurled stones at police and smashed vans.
Maoists gheraoed the central secretariat defying prohibitory orders.
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Maoist gherao of Singha Durbar begins

Kathmandu, 12 Nov: A two-day gherao of central secretariat Singha Durbar began Thursday morning to disrupt work at the government offices housed there.
Almost all ministries are located inside the complex.
Leaders, including Chairman Prachanda, led groups converging at the secretariat.
Maoists bussed in thousands of people from all over the country.
One person died and 10 were seriously injured on Tanahu when a bus transporting Maoists to the capital for the anti-government protests plunged off a highway.
Many schools closed in the Valley for two days because of the inconvenience caused by the sit-in.
One day after extending prohibitory orders around Singha Durbar to Kalikasthan and Padmodaya School, it was revoked Wednesday evening by the Kathmandu district administration saying people would be inconvenienced.
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Govt. offices in Bara, Parsa closed

Kathmandu, 12 Nov: Government offices in Bara and Parsa districts remained closed for the second consecutive Thursday to protest the assault on the Parsa CDO by a woman minister Tuesday.
A case of assault has been filed against her at Parsa district court demanding her arrest by the bodyguard of CDO Durga Prasad Bhandari.
The order hasn’t been executed.
Demand has been made for action against her for the assault.
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Girija improving

Kathmandu, 12 Nov: The health condition of Nepali Congress President Girija Prasad Koirala is improving of the third day of treatment at hospital Thursday, doctors said.
He will be treated at hospital for several more days.
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Jhalanath Khanal welcomes UN call for national government

Kathmandu, 12 Nov: Chairman of ruling party CPN-UML Jhalanath Khanal welcomed UN call for a national government opposed by 22 parties including his own immediately after returning Wednesday from India where he held political discussions on Nepal’s internal affairs with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
“The need of the country is to form a national unity government which will pave the way out of the current political stalemate,” he said.
Khanal said he wasn’t worried by a UN call for a national unity government.
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Paras Khadka captain of national team

Kathmandu, 12 Nov: Paras Khadka has been appointed captain of the 14-member national cricket team.
He replaces Binod Das.

MEDIA GOOGLE

“This [promotion of Maj Gen Toran Bahadur Singh] is our internal affair and the international community should not interfere.”

(Defence Minister Bidya Bhandari, The Kathmandu Post, 12 Nov.)

“Generally leftist insurgents don’t want anything to do with UN’s involvement in their country. They are skeptical about the intervention of the world body. But contrary to this, Maoists invited the UN to oversee the peace process, even though it was a home grown process.”

(Dr Baburam Bhatarai, Republica, 12 Nov.)
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2009-11-10T20:26:00.001-08:00

Minister mauls Parsa Chief District Officer (CDO)

Kathmandu, 11 Nov: State Minister for Agriculture Karima Begum from LMJF assaulted Parsa District Officer (CDO) at his office premise Tuesday.
The minister charged the top district officer Durga Prassad Bhandari responsible for law enforcement in the district for disrespecting a Madeshi by providing her a old government vehicle at Simara airport for her movement after arriving from the capital.
The incident comes after a Maoist Minister Matrika Yadav, who has since launched his own party after defection, hut a government in a restroom in Singha Durbar.
Calling for her dismissal, officials have called movement and closure of offices in Narayani anchal Wednesday; Birgunj customs office has been closed down in protest.
Home ministry regretted the attack in the statement.
But officials asked for a government apology; a memorandum is being submitted to the prime minister later Wednesday by officials.
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Girija admitted to hospital

Kathmandu, 11 Nov: Ailing octogenarian Nepali Congress President and five-time prime minister was admitted to hospital Tuesday for treatment of a chronic lung problem.
His scheduled departure for Singapore for treatment Wednesday was cancelled.
Doctors believe Koirala endure the long flight to the island republic.
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Jhalanath Khanal returns Wednesday

Kathmandu, 11 Nov: Chairman of ruling CPN-UML Jhalanath Khanal returned Wednesday from New Delhi where he held consultations Tuesday with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
He discussed Nepali internal politics with Singh and other even as 18 parties, including CPN-UML opposed a call of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon for a government of national unity,
In meetings with Nepali leaders, Indian parties have been issuing directives on the form of government and later saying it’s up to the Nepali people to decide their future.
After the meeting, Khanal said,” Indian leaders want to see progress and the new constitution in Nepal.
If the constitution I drafted in the next six months within the 28 May deadline, Nepal will have four constitutions in 20 years—an average of one constitution every five years.
The present interim constitution was promulgated by an unelected self-appointed parliament after current ruling parties shred a 1990 constitution they drafted into pieces.
The 1990 basic law replaced a panchayat constitution.
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Proposed cabinet meeting at Everest base camp called off

Kathmandu, 11 Nov: A proposed cabinet at Everest base camp Wednesday has been called off without assigning any reason.
The cabinet meting could have been held at the foot of the world’s tallest 8848 meters peak even though Prime Minister Madhab Kumar Nepal is ill with viral fever.
There was a proposal to issue a declaration there to highlight the adverse impact of climate change on the Himalayan region ahead of a world summit on climate change in Denmark.
Nepal was clearly attempting to emulate Maldives where a seabed cabinet meet was recently held to draw the world to the possibility of the island being swept away from the map with the rising sea level.
A meeting in the rarefied air at 19,000 by flying directly there without acclimatizing to the height could have been dangerous for ministers with possibility of developing altitude sickness when water collects in the lungs.
Sick PM Nepal has cancelled his proposed Italy visit to attend a FAO conference in Rome later this month also citing the ill health of Girija Prasad Koirala and the political impasse.
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Maoists continue anti-government protests

Kathmandu, 11 Nov: Maoists Wednesday continued the second phase of their anti-government protests for the 11th day.
They Tuesday obstructed the entry of vehicles into the Valley by blocking entry points in their continuing anti-government protests.
The movement of vehicles inside the capital wasn’t obstructed.
Maoist central leaders Tuesday decided to intensify their protests.
Meanwhile, Kathmandu district administration Tuesday declared additional areas around Kalikasthan and Padmodaya School near Singha Durbar prohibited areas where rallies and protests have been banned.
Areas immediately around the central secretariat were already prohibited areas.
Maoists announced they will seize the secretariat for two days as part of their protests demanding correction of what they call unconstitutional presidential reinstatement of sacked Army Chief Gen Rukmangud Katawal while demanding ‘supremacy of civilian rule’.
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Former crown prince in Mustang

Kathmandu, 11 Nov: Former Crown Prince Paras returned to the capital Tuesday after a flying visit of Mustang, Nagarik reports.
In Mustang, he met former Mustang Raja Jimmy Parbal Bista.
Friends from Singapore accompanied the former crown prince.
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Hone minister Rawal going to New Delhi, Beijing

Kathmandu, 11 Nov: Home Minister Bhim Rawal next Wednesday is leaving for New Delhi as a head of a delegation at the invitation of the Indian government, Janaastha reports.
According to a source, during the visit India will resurrect the extradition treaty that awaits signature.
The treaty didn’t figure as a top agenda item during the just concluded talks of home secretaries of the two countries in Kathmandu.
Rawal returns 5 December and then heads for Beijing.
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Prime minister, defence minister not on speaking terms

Kathmandu, 11 Nov: Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal and Defence Minister Bidya Bhandari aren’t on speaking terms for nearly eight week, Ghatana ra Bichar reports.
The prime minister is ‘bravely’ sitting on a proposal of the defence minister to promote Maj Gen Toran Bahadur Singh.
The defence minister at a cabinet meeting two months ago asked to end uncertainty in the army by promoting Singh but the prime minister called off the meeting even as she was speaking.
Bhandari has boycotted cabinet meetings since then.
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TRADE, COMMERCE, ECONOMY

Direct Kathmandu, Mumbai flights

Kathmandu, 11 Nov: India’s Jet Airways, will start direct flights between Mumbai and Kathmandu from 2 December, the airline said.
The daily flight will be operated by a Boeing 737.
The airline also links Nepal’s capital with New Delhi; it will operate two daily flights between the capitals from 17 November.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“Indian Prime Minister asked [Jhalanath Khanal]: Is the environment right to draft a constitution?”

(Headline in Kantipur, 11 Nov.)

“During meetings, Indian leaders talked along these lines with me. I was surprised; they [Sher Bahadur Deuba, Surya Bahadur Thapa and KP Sharma Oli] proposed to Indian leaders the dissolution of the constitutional assembly, declaration of presidential rule and the drafting of a constitution by forming a constitution drafting commission.)

(MJF Chairman Upendra Yadav, Janaastha, 11 Nov.)

“Our relationship to the CA is a mother-child relation and we will stand against all the conspiracies being hatched to dissolve it.”

(Dr Baburam Bhattarai, The Rising Nepal, 11 Nov.)

‘There was no strength here to remove the king. Where has the UN resolved the problem? It should be sent baack.”

(Prakash Koirala, Janaastha, 11 Nov.)

2009-11-08T21:25:00.001-08:00

Girija ill, flying to Singapore for treatment

Kathmandu, 8 Nov: Former five-time Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala, 86, is sick and is flying to Singapore for treatment Wednesday.
He is suffering chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, nephew Dr Shekhar Koirala said.
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Draft report on constitution submitted

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 8 Nov: The fundamental rights and directives committee of the constituent assembly (CA) Sunday submitted its suggestion to Chairman Subash Nemwang.
The suggestions weren’t unanimous.
Maoists suggested ban on parties of what they call ‘traitors and regressive elements”
Nepali Congress has proposed ban on political parties provoking revolt or forming militia.
Four other subject committees have yet to submit their reports.
Major political parties differ on fundamentals for a proposed constitution that has to be completed by 28 May 2010.
The present interim constitution was promulgated by a self-apoi9nted unelected parliament.
Meanwhile, Chairman Nemwang said Sunday the schedule to complete the subject committee reports by mid-November is being rescheduled for the seventh time.
:We are close to amending the constitution assembly calendar of events for the seventh time because we are in no position to complete debate on all thematic committees,” he said.
Committees have to complete reports and suggestions 15 November.
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Gachedhar to initiate construction of highway

Kathmandu, 8 Nov: Deputy Prime Minister Bijaya Kumar Gachedhar Monday will initiate the construction of a four lane 76.2 km Lalitpur- Nijgadh fast track at Budune Hetauda.
Nepal Army will construction the Rs 250 million track.
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UN again under controversy

Kathmandu, 8 Nov: United Nations has again come under controversy amid charges the world organization was ignorant of how the constitution is to be drafted.
A report presented by Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to the security council said because of the constitution drafting committee the schedule of the drafting the constitution by the May 28 May2010 deadline may not be met.
“The report’s information on the constitutional committee isn’t objective and factual,” chairman of the constitutional committee Nilambar Acharya said and added the constituent assembly and not the committee was responsible for revision of the schedule and drafting the constitution by the 28 May 2010 deadline.
The UN is ignorant of the constitution drafting process in Nepal, he charged.
“Because the report is biased and one-sided, we will seek clarification from Landgren. UNMIN which has been entrusted with the responsibility of facilitating the political parties in the peace process does not have the right to issue political directives,” Peace Minister Rakam Chemjung said.
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Kirtinidhi Bista going to China

Kathmandu, 8 Nov: Former Prime Minister is going to China this week to attend the Bao conference, Jana Bahwana reports..
The two-day meet is being held 16, 17 November.
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TRADE, ECONOMY, BUSINESS

Kathmandu, Lhasa bus service to resume

Kathmandu, 8 Nov: Lhasa, Kathmandu direct bus service will resume February 2010 by Tibet.
Sangping Wang, Deputy Director of Tibet Autonomous Administration made the announcement Sunday
Shaja Yatayat Sansthan had suspended the service.
A two-day 3rd joint coordination committee meeting for promotion of tourism between Nepal and Tibet started Sunday.
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NIBL profit

Kathmandu, 8 Nov: Nepal Investment Bank Limited (NIBL) recorded Rs 292.4 million net profit in Q1 of fiscal year 2009/10 ending 17 October, the bank said.
The bank registered a Rs 232.1 million profit in the corresponding quarter the previous year.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“I never run for a post and whenever I have occupied an office, be that the post of the party’s general secretary or the chairman, it was because the circumstances demanded so. If the same situation arises, I am prepared to shoulder any responsibility [prime minister] I am entrusted with.”

(CPN-UML Chairman Jhalanath Khanal, The Himalayan Times, 8 Nov.)

“National government is impossible under the leadership of losers.”

(Chairman Prachanda, Janadisha, 8 Nov.)

“The new constitution won’t be drafted and the peace process will not reach a logical conclusion until the camps are cleared of combatants and weapons managed.”

(PM Nepal, Nagarik, 8 Nov.)
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2009-11-07T22:57:00.001-08:00

Maoists indicate parliament disruption could end

Kathmandu, 7 Nov: Chairman Prachanda hinted in central terai Sunday Maoists could end parliament disruption for one day for the approval of the annual budget.
Maoists have been disrupting proceedings of the legislature for five months.
But the chairman asked parties not to take the end of the disruption for a short time as a victory.
He said discussions will be held with parties to stop the disruptions after returning to the capital.
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UN didn’t interfere in Nepal

Kathmandu, 7 Nov: A top UN official Friday said Secretary General Ban Ki-moon didn’t interfere in Nepal’s internal affairs while suggesting a government on national unity in Nepal.
The security council Friday held discussions on Nepal and UNMIN role.
Twenty-two ruling parties objected the suggestion.
‘The report is intended to encourage Nepal’s political parties to achieve what they themselves have expressed about the desirability of a unity government and does not in an way represent a form on interference,” said Ambassador Thomas Mayr-Harting of Austria which is holding the security council presidency for November.
“The ruling parties told the view that it is up to the parties and Nepal’s sovereign legislature to decide the type of government, They are always open to on inclusion of all the parties in the government and have specifically asked the UCPN (Maoist) to join the coalition,” Nepal’s Permanent Representative to the council Mahdu Raman Acharya said.
He objected to putting Nepal Army and Maoist combatants in the same category.
“It is the view of the government that the references in the report implying parity between the regular national army and the former combatants living in the UN-monitored cantonments, who may have to be integrated into the security forces or rehabilitated in the society and families, is not likely to help bring a positive outcome in the ongoing negotiations,” Acharya told the council, according to The Kathmandu Post.
“Until the parties establish a clearer framework for cooperation, and find ways of moving forward on major elements of the peace process, it is difficult to plot a structured exit for UNMIN.” UNMIN Chief Karen Landgren said.
The fresh UNMIN mandate ends 23 January 2010.
“There is an urgent need to de-escalate the tensions and to find a framework for taking the peace process forward,” she added.
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2009-11-07T21:44:00.000-08:00

Death toll soars to 15

Kathmandu, 7 Nov: Sunday’s Agakanchi bus accident death tool has soared to 15, fresh reports said.
More than one dozen persons were injured.
The bus fell 300 meters off a mountain highway killing the passengers.
The death toll could rise.
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Prachanda denies links with Naxalites

Kathmandu, 7 Nov: Chairman Prachanda denied Sunday Nepal’s Maoist have relations with Indian counterparts.
The Maoist chairman denied the link to reporters in central terai.
The denial comes one day after Indian Home Secretary G.K. Pillai said Indian and Nepali Maoists ‘were in touch with each other”.
Pillai also said in the capital Saturday,” I do not think Nepali Maoists are importing arms from India or vice-versa. And I do not think it is a crucial issue either.”
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Congress proposes presidential rule, dismissal of CA

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 7 Nov: CPN-UML leader Ashok Rai revealed Saturday coalition partner Nepali Congress has proposed to the party the dissolution of the constituent assembly (CA) and enforcement of presidential rule.
The disclosure comes at a time when several human rights workers also suggested enforcement of presidential rule to end a five-month political impasse as a Maoist second phase anti-government protests entered the second week Sunday.
“In talks with us Nepali Congress said the new constitution shouldn’t be drafted and the constituent assembly should be dissolved. Discussions centered around the formation of a commission to draft the constitution,” Rai said in the capital Saturday.
“Some powers have designs to destroy the country. It’s not for nothing that Limbuwan, Khumbuwan and Madesh movements have been launched.” He said.
Nepali Congress Vice-chairman Ram Chandra Paudel denied Rai’s claim.
‘Congress hasn’t contemplated the dissolution of the CA. Congress was never in favour of presidential rule,” Paudel said. ‘The claim is totally false. Congress cannot be a victim of groupism in CPM-UML.”
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Maoists boycott special committee meet

Kathmandu, 7 Nov: Maoists Sunday for the second time boycotted a meeting of the special committee on supervision, management and rehabilitation of Maoist combatants headed by Prime Minister Madhab Kumar Nepal.
The meeting is held every Sunday
The boycott comes at a time Maoists have launched the second phase of their anti-government protests.
The boycott will delay the integration of rehabilitation and integration of Maoist combatants in Nepal Army and the phasing out of 4,000 disqualified combatants from camps.
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Outlet only after discussions with India: Maoists

Kathmandu, 7 Nov: Maoists have concluded an outlet to the internal political impasse can come only after decisive talks with neighboburing India, Rajdhani reports.
A top Maoist source revealed message has been sent by the leadership to New Delhi through contacts and the Indian embassy here.
Chairman Prachanda will visit India after CPN-UML Chairman Prachanda returns from India.
There’s possibility Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal’s proposed China could be affected with the proposed visit and the possibility of a new political structure.
Dates for Prachanda and Nepal visit haven’t been finalized yet.
“Date of the India visit hasn’t been finalized,” Maoist leader Agni Prasad Sapkota told Rajdhani. ‘The visit will come at an appropriate time.”
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“Indian expansionism does not want to see peace process concluded in Nepal. India wants to hold sway over Nepal’s affairs by displacing the UN from here,.”

(Maoist leader Lilamani Pokhrel, Republica, 7 Nov.)

“UNMIN is speaking on behalf of Maoists and is preaching to parties instead of controlling criminal activities of Maoist combatants after coming out of camps.”

(Congress leader Ram Chandra Paudel, Rajdhani, 7 Nov,)

2009-11-07T19:29:00.000-08:00

Ten killed in Argakachi bus accident

Kathmandu, 8 Nov. Ten persons were killed and 10 others were injured in a bus accident in Harshapur in Argakachi Sunday morning, first reports said.
Pokhara was tense Sunday a bus mowed to death two persons in the resort town.
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Nepal. India agree to consolidate cross-border crimes

Kathmandu, 8 Nov: Home secretaries of Nepal and India Saturday agreed to consolidate cooperation to stop cross-border crimes along the open 1,700 km open border.
They agreed to help each other to check human trafficking and flow of counterfeit currency notes.
The agreement came after two-day talks that concluded Saturday.
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Irregularity in distribution of CLF bulbs by NEA

Kathmandu, 8 Nov: Widespread irregularity has surfaced in the free distribution of CLF bulbs by Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) to customers to reduce power consumption.
The extended campaign ends 15 November.
Customers have had to return without the bulbs saying they have already been claimed.
The bulbs were claimed after presenting payment booklet of owners.
Authorities of NEA could have claimed the free bulbs.
One customer is entitled to two free bulbs for two bulbs bought.
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2009-11-05T21:19:00.000-08:00

Maoists withdraw plans to declare autonomous republics

Kathmandu, 6 Nov: Maoists Friday withdrew plans to declare autonomous republics during the second phase of their anti-government protests.
Chairman Prachanda made the announcement in Ilam Friday.
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Ruling parties protest Ban KI-moon’s suggestion

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 6 Nov: Twenty-two ruling coalition parties Thursday strangely denounced UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon’s call for a government of national unity welcomed by Maoists after first inviting the world body to handle Nepal’s political issues.
The denunciation is correct, but why were foreign parties invites to handle Nepal’s internal issues.
What are the ruling parties doing to stop or reduce foreign interference in internal matters after inviting foreigners in the first place?
The Moon call for a national unity government comes soon after directives to government to stop the promotion of a general in Nepal Army and not to enroll soldiers to fill in vacancies.
The UN also interprets a vague peace agreement that is subject to various interpretations even though the UN is not the final interpreter.
Chairman Prachanda welcoming the secretary general’s call said it was also the demand of UCPN (Maoist).
“It is for the Nepali people and political parties to decide the kind of government, how to form it and under whose leadership it should be firmed.
“The Maoist –led government was a majority government not a national government. But the UN did not bother to issue a statement then to ask Nepal to from a national unity government,” political aide Raghu Pant of the prime minister said.
“The UN does not need to preach us regarding formation of the government,” Vice-Chairman of Nepal Congress Ram Chandra Paudel said.
UN security council begins Nepal discussions in New York Friday.
The coalition partners denounced the UN chief’s call after inviting the world body to handle Nepal’s political issues.
They denounced the call even as they unhesitatingly discuss Nepal’s internal issues in New Delhi and other world capitals.
Maoists and the then seven political parties signed a seven-point peace accorded brokered by India in New Delhi and written in Hindi.
The Nepali text was translated from Hindi.
The seven parties were the first to invite foreign involvement in Nepali politics and now they denounce Moon’s call.
Surya Bahadur Thapa, Sher Bahadur Deuba and Pashupati SJB Rana just recently returned after holding discussions on Nepal’s internal issues with Indian leaders.
The ruling coalition partners hit out at the United Nations even as CPN-UML Chairman Jhalanath Khamal discussed Nepal’s internal political issues with Indian leaders in New Delhi.
During the political pilgrimage, Khanal held open discussions Thursday with with Home Minister P Chidambaran, Foreign Minister SM Krishna, CPI-M General Secretary Prakash Karat and CPI General Secretary AB Bardhan.
“I have been assured of all assistance for our peace process and development,” Khanal said after discussions with the Indian home minister.
MJF Chairman Upendra Yadav is also in the Indian capital discussing Nepali politics with Indian leaders.
Indian leaders have been issuing directives to Nepalis on how to handle the country’s transition after monarchy was toppled.
Nepali politicians are discussing Nepal with Indians during the ongoing Maoist anti-government agitation which entered the sixth day Friday.
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Nepal, India home secretary talks

Kathmandu, 6 Nov> Home secretaries of Nepal and India begin talks Friday on security issues.
India will urge the formalization of a new extradition treaty that has already been prepared; agreement has been delayed because of concerns in Nepal India has rights in the new treaty to get extradition of people it considers anti-Indian.
Nepali side to the talks is being led by Home Secretary Gobinda Kusum.
Nepal will seek the control of activities of India-based of terai rebels.
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Swine flu outbreak in Parbat

Kathmandu, 6 Nov: A swine flu epidemic has broken out in Parbat where nine cases have been confirmed.
Tests from 12 persons confirmed the outbreak of the disease in the west Nepal district.
Schools were closed there temporarily after the outbreak.
Forty-eight cases of the disease have now been confirmed in Nepal.
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Five seriously injured in bomb blast

Kathmandu, 6 Nov: Five persons were seriously injured in an abandoned bomb blast at a field in Bara Thursday.
Among the injured were children and women.
It wasn’t known if the bomb was left behind during a 10-year Maoist people’s war or the current insurgency inn the terai.
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Bus mows down three in capital

Kathmandu, 6 Nov: A bus mowed down three pedestrians in the capital at Chabahil Thursday.
Irate mob torched three vehicles.
This was the worst traffic accident in the capital after five Indians were killed in front of Bir Hospital by a young driver of a personal cart several months ago.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“Contrary to the purely ceremonial role envisaged by most architects of New Nepal, Yadav [president] seems set to acquire executive influence. His high-profile political consultations in connection with the formation of the new government have angered sections of the Maoists. The president’s direct participation in the activities of the Nepal Army has alienated some quarters on the other end of the ideological spectrum.”

(Maila Baje, The People’s Review, 6 Nov.)

“I’ve never seen such a fragile prime minister.”

(Communist leader Amik Serchan, The Himalayan Times, 6 Nov.)

2009-11-04T21:25:00.000-08:00

Strike called off

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: Three-wheeler entrepreneurs called off a threatened strike in the Valley Thursday.
The strike was called off after the supreme court stay order to government not phase off three-wheelers.
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NRB under fire

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: A probe team has blamed Nepal Rashtra Bank (BRB) for the severe shortage of currency notes during dasain.
The probe report prepared by a team headed by Dr Mangal Siddhi Manandhar, submitted the report to Finance Minister Surendra Pandey Wednesday.
“NRB managerial flaw is the min reason behind the note shortage, The Kathmandu Post quotes Manandhar as saying.
“Communication between the employees related to note management and NRB’s top management was found to be weak. We’ve found carelessness among all of them.
“We didn’t find it intentional.” Manandhar said.
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2009-11-04T20:02:00.000-08:00

Maoists stage sit-ins at district headquarters for second day

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: Maoists continued their sit-ins of all district headquarters for the second day Thursday to district work at government offices.
The sit-ins were violent Wednesday at Maoists clashed with police who lobbed teargas shells
Maoists Wednesday also disrupted parliamentary proceedings again for the 32nd time.
The protests continue even as major leaders attempted to break a crippling five-month political impasse.
Maoists launched the second phase of their anti-government protests amid charges ceremonial President Dr Ram Baran Yadav acted unconstitutionally to retain sacked Army Chief Gen Rukmangud Katawal.
Twenty-two ruling parties against the spirit of the third popular movement in 2005 to create a strong executive prime minister are attempting to create a parallel power center around the president after Maoists emerged as the largest political party in the constituent assembly which also acts as a parliament.
Maoists said the president is a new king without a crown.
Maoists are responsible for the political deadlock as well.
Maoists leading a coalition government acted unilaterally to sack Gen Katawal and appointed a new army chief without involving the president who was only notified of the dismissal and appointment.
An emergency cabinet meeting Wednesday decided to protect the live and property of people during the movement.
Government again invited Maoists to begin a dialogue to discuss demands.
Twenty-two ruling parties are also holding a meeting later Thursday to find an outlet.
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Extensive powers of NC president curtailed

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: An extended general congress of Nepali Congress against the wishes of party President Girija Prasad Koirala Wednesday by a two-third majority voted to curtail the sweeping powers of the party chief.
Girija resisted the effort until the last moment.
More than 1,200 delegates voted to amend the party statute and restrict powers of the president to nominate office bearers and 50 percent central committee members.
After the amendment, the president can now appoint only one vice-president, one general secretary and a joint general secretary; the president is now empowered to nominate only 16 to 85 central committee members..
Koirala, who had been imposing his decisions on the party without serious discussion. resisted curtails in the power arguing he party will suffer,
The congress took the decision amid challenges to aging Koirala in the central committee and parliamentary party where young Turks also calling for collective and elected instead of nominated leaders opposed the promotion of daughter Sujata to deputy prime minister by the prime minister at Koirala’s request.
Dissatisfied youth leaders are demanding institutional decisions in the party.
Koirala is losing his once firm grip on the party.
More than two-third members calling for internal democracy were for restrictions of the president’s power and collective leadership.
The congress pledged continued support to the CPN-UMNL-led government of Madhav Kumar Nepal at a time when Maoists are calling for a national unity government under CUCPN (Maoist).
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Cabinet meeting at Everest base camp

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: The cabinet is meeting for the first time—possibly on 11 November-- at the base camp of Mount Everest, the 8848 meters high world’s tallest peak, to highlight the adverse effect of climate change on the Himalaya were the snowline is receding.
Cabinet members will fly to base camp from the capital for the two-day met in what some call a gimmick immediately after the underwater cabinet meeting in Maldives which could be underwater in the next two decades with rising ocean level ahead of the Denmark
Forest Minister Dipak Bohara denied Nepal was trying to emulate Maldives saying the meeting had been planned since September.,
Flying to base camp without trekking there could be dangerous with ministers likely to develop altitude sickness which can kill.
Bohara said final decision hasn’t been taken whether the meeting will be held at base camp.
“We’re considering four sites from 15,000 to 19,000 feet,” he said.
Doctors will accompany the ministers for emergency medical assistance and cabinet members will also be provided with oxygen masks for the meeting in the rarefied air.
Business community is funding the meeting.
“The meeting is not a gimmick. The adverse effect of climate change on the Himalayan region has affected one billion people,” Bohara said.
The declaration from Everest base camp will be circulated at the world conference on climate change later this year in Denmark.
PM Nepal is attending the meet.
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Curfew lifted in Dhankuta

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: Local administration Wednesday lifted a two-day curfew in Dhankuta from nine at night.
The curfew was slapped after agreement between Maoist YCL and CPN-UML Youth Force which withdrew a indefinite strike in the district after the a five-point agreement.
Violence broke out in the east Nepal town four days ago.
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Judicial probe into Accham rape charge

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: Former supreme court justice Krishna Prasad Basyal has been appointed chief of a team to investigate charge by a policewoman she was raped by colleagues.
The probe committee has three members.
A police team has already investigated the charge.
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Chairman Jhalanath Khanal meets Indian leaders

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: CPN-UML Chairman Jhalanath Khanal Wednesday held political discussions with Indian Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee main opposition BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani and Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao in the Indian capital Thursday.
“Nepalis should work together to take the peace process to a logical conclusion,” Khanal told The Kathmandu Post after the meetings.
Khanal is continuing discussions with other leaders,
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Lives of Nepali peacekeepers in danger in Sudan

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: The investigation team sent to Sudan under the aegis of the home ministry and Nepal Police has come up with a shocking report according to which the 140 Nepali peacekeepers currently deployed in the Dafur region face a security threat as they are operating without armed personnel carriers (APCs), Republica reports.
The team concluded that the eight APCs sent to Dafur for peacekeepers are sub-standard and useless.
The report concluded that there was irregularity in the procurement process as well. According to the report, the lives of Nepali peacekeepers in Sudan are in danger as they are carrying out their duties without any APCs.
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Nepali winner of $1 million lottery in USA?

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: A Texas county has indicted a store clerk for allegedly stealing a winning $1 million lottery ticket, but the state lottery commission tells the original buyer that it considers the clerk to be the winner and won’t pay up, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports according to agency report in Republica.
Commission officials told Willis Wills,67, of Grand Prairie, Texas, that they consider the clerk, Pankaj Joshi, the rightful winner because Joshi signed and redeemed the ticket a required, Willis’ attorney says.
But Joshi has been indicted in Texas county on charges of claiming a lottery prize by fraud. Prosecutors hope to give $350,000 seized from Joshi’s bank accounts, the paper says.
Joshi later cashed it [lottery] in, receiving $750,000 after taxes, and apparently returned to his native Nepal.
Willis’ attorney Sean E. Breen said Tuesday: “I think the Lottery Commission is more concerned with covering their own behinds than making some sure Willis gets the money. We will move forward with all legal remedies.”
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Chinese brothel in Thamel

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: Foreign women prostitutes are also active in Thamel, Naya Patrika reports.
Chinese women and Nepali were arrested W4dnesday by police from a rented room in Thamel.
The brother was run by a Chinese couple; the husband was arrested and his wife has gone missing.
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TRADE, COMMERCE, ECONOMY

China to extend soft loan

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: China has pledged a $ 200 soft loan equivalent to Rs 14.97 billion for a hydro power project and infrastructure development.
The Export-Import (EXIM) Bank Of China will extend a $120 million loan for the Upper Trisuli hydro power project and $ 80 million to upgrade Pokhara airport.
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Hetauda Textile Mill liquidation

Kathmandu, 5 Nov: Government Wednesday decided to send the Chinese-aided Hetauda Textile Mill into liquidation.
The Prachanda government opted to run the factory even as a predecessor government decided to privatize it.
There were no takers.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“The India visits of CPN-UNL Chairman Jhalanath Khanal and MJF Chairman Upendra Yadav probably in search of resolution of current political stalemate, are indication of Nepal leaders’ dependency on our southern neighbour to make crucial decisions for them.”

(Sarina Chetry, The Kathmandu Post, 5 Nov.)

“Even UN Secretary General Ban Bi-moon said in the UN security council meting that Nepal needs a national unity government, His opinion matches ours. His statement is equivalent to one by an international community.”

(Chairman Dahal, The Kathmandu Post, 5 Nov.)

“With Indian Maoists already fighting a war, I don’t think India wants to open up another front in Nepal.”

(Dr Baburam Bhattarai, Republica, 5 Nov.)
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2009-11-03T20:32:00.000-08:00

Govt, draws UNMIN’s attention

Kathmandu, 4 Nov: Government has decided to draw the attention of UNMIN for what it calls the violation by Maoists of a comprehensive peace agreement (CPA).
Government decided to draw the attention after a meeting Tuesday of ministers and top officials to review the ongoing Maoist anti-government protests.
Government spokesman and Communication Minister Shanker Pokhrel said Maoist declaration of autonomous regions, blockade of the Valley and seizure of Dhankuta municipality were against the spirit of the CPA.
“The government urges UNMIN to pay attention to these activities,” Pokhrel said.
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Dutch tourist killed

Kathmandu, 4 Nov: A Dutch tourist was killed in a rafting accident on Kaligandariver Tuesday.
Sabinbe Carapli, 32, died when a boat capsized.
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PM Nepal flying for Rome

Kathmandu, 4 Nov: Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal if flying for Rome next week, Annapurna Post reports.
He is flying there to attend a WFP conference beginning 7 November.
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Matrika Yadav admitted to hospital

Kathmandu, 4 Nov: Matrika Yadav, coordinator of CPN (Maoist), has been admitted to a hospital after he fainted at his home, Sunday night Annapurna Post reports.
Yadav was admitted to Norvic Hospital.
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Former king go to India

Kathmandu, 4 Nov: Former King Gyanendra is going to India to attend the wedding of a relative ,Janaastha reports
The marriage of the granddaughter of the sister of King Tribhuvan takes place 22 December in Bhubaneshwor, Orissa.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“This is all that I can give you in my life. What you got is a big achievement.”

(Girija to daughter Sujata Koirala, Janaastha, 4 Nov.)

“Congress wanted the presidency. UML thought it would be elected with a majority in the constituent assembly. Maoist repeatedly got concessions because of the self-interests of the two parties. Maoists started violating agreements with parties; Congress and UML started meeting their demands.”

(Surya Bahadur Thapa, Rajdhani, 4 Nov.)

2009-11-03T18:40:00.000-08:00

Three patties try to end political deadlock

Kathmandu, 4 Nov: Three days after Maoists launched an anti-government popular movement to restore what they call civilian supremacy and correction of a presidential action to retain sacked Army Chief Gen Rukmangud Katawal, three major parties Tuesday attempted to find an outlet to a five-month political impasse.
The discussions weren’t conclusive.
Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal held discussions with ailing Nepali Congress President Girika Prasad Koirala.
Top leaders of UPM-UML, Nepali Congress and Maoists, including Chairman, also held discussions Tuesday evening at the residence of CPN-UML leader KP Sharma Oli—a biter Maoist critic.
Leaders said they discussed new ways to end the deadlock.
Meanwhile, Maoists withdrew a planned blockade of the Tribhuvan International Airport- the country’s only international airport.
Prachanda said central leaders took the decision at the request of the foreign embassies.
Government, meanwhile, decided Tuesday to put all security agencies, including Nepal Army, on high alert to thwart the Maoist protests.
Prime Minister Nepal attended a meeting at the home ministry.
Maoists Wednesday are staging sit-ins at district headquarters nation-wide go two days.
The sit-ins are being staged through office hours to cripple work at government offices.
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Curfew relaxed for several hours in Dkankuta

Kathmandu, 4 Nov: Curfew was relaxed for several hours until noon Wednesday morning in Dhankuta.
Local administration slapped the curfew in the east Nepal town from five in the afternoon Tuesday after violent clashes between Maoist YCL and CPN-UML Youth force.
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Nepali Congress general congress meeting extended one more day

Kathmandu, 4 Nov: Nepali Congress general congress meeting was extended for one more day until Wednesday.
The meeting was expended after all speakers couldn’t make their statements within the stipulated three days.
Demands have been made for collective leadership in the party which is discussing statute amendments.
Nnnn

Jhalanath Khanal on political pilgrimage in New Delhi

By Bhola B Rana

Katmandu, 4 Nov: CPN-UML Chairman Jhalanath Khanal is holding discussions with Indian government leaders and main opposition BJP leader Lal Krishna Krishna Advani in the Indian capital Wednesday.
Khanal flew to New Delhi Tuesday in the midst of a Maoist anti-government movement to discuss Nepal’s internal political issues.
Opposition MJF Chairman Upendra Yadav is also on a political pilgrimage in the Indian capital.
Several ruling party leaders held discussions with top Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
Before Khanal, Rashtriya Janasakti Party Chairman Surya Bahadur Thapa, RPP Chairman Pashupati SJB Rana and Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba held discussions with Indian leaders.
India has been playing an interventionist role in Nepal after monarchy was toppled in 2005.
Nepali parties even invited UN to settle political issues of the country.
The UN which is discussing Nepal in New York Friday and has even suggested the type of government for the country to end a political impasse
Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has suggested a national government as parties keep mum after inviting and tolerating foreign intervention.
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2009-11-01T21:25:00.000-08:00

Relief for govt.

Kathmandu, 2 Nov: A government probe committee formed to look into the causes of diarrhea outbreak in the mid and far-West gave a clean chit to UN WFP Sunday, The Himalayan Times reports.
‘The foodstuff distributed by the WFP was fit for consumption.” it said.
But a National Human Rights Commission report said the foodstuff was sub-standard without saying the epidemic that claimed more than 650 lives caused the epidemic during the monsoon.
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Tourist arrivals up

Kathmandu, 2 Nov: Tourist arrivals jumped 10.8 percent in October compared to the same month the previous year, Tourism officials said.
Altogether 56,008 visitors arrived by air in October,
Nnnn

Canada to establish embassy

Kathmandu, 2 Nov: Canada is opening an embassy in Nepal soon, an aide to the prime minister said, according to Nepal Samacharpatra.
A senior Canadian diplomat said this at a meeting Sunday with Prime Minister MadhavKumar Nepal..
Nepal is for the first time opening an embassy in Canada and an ambassador has already been appointed.
Sweden is also opening an embassy in the Nepalese capital soon, a diplomat said.
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2009-11-01T20:27:00.001-08:00

Maoists launch threatened popular movement

Kathmandu, 2 Nov> Chairman Prachanda Sunday evening launched their threatened their anti-government popular movement from the old bus park in the capital with torchlight rallies.
Vehicular movement in the inner city was obstructed.
Maoists are demanding what they call restoration of civilian authority and correction of a unconstitutional decision of the president to retain sacked Army Chief Gen Rukmangud Katawal.
Maoists plan to blockade the Valley during the movement.
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2009-11-01T00:26:00.000-07:00

Ban pushes national unity govt.

Kathmandu, 1 Nov: UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon Saturday called for a national unity government in a Nepal report.
Security council discusses Nepal in New York 6 November.
“A government of national unity remains desirable for timely promulgation of the statute and for the successful integration and rehabilitation of Maoist fighters.
“I call on all parties to arrive at a consensus on the future of the Maoist army personnel as this is one of the cornerstones of the peace process,” he said.
Nnnn

WFP denies NHRC claim

Kathmandu, 1 Nov: WFP Saturday denied a National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) report the UN agency distributed sub-standard food in the mid and far-West where a cholera and diarrhea epidemic claimed more than 600 lives this monsoon.
WFP said the claims ‘could raise alarm among more than two million Nepalis who depend on our food our food.”
“Numerous experts, including representatives from World Halth Organization and the Ministry of Health have stated that the illness in the mid and far-West were results of contaminated water, poor sanitation and lack of hygiene.”
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2010 year of tiger

Kathmandu, 1 Nov: The year 2010 will be observed as the year of the tiger to raise internal awareness to protest the endangered species.
A four-day conference of 14 tiger range countries took the decision in the Nepalese capital Saturday.
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2009-10-31T22:46:00.001-07:00

Last minute Girija appeal to Maoists to call off movement

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 1 Nov: Ailing Nepali Congress President Girija Prasad Koiraka Sunday morning in a last minute appeal asked Maoists to call off their anti-government protests and sit down with government for negotiations.
Maoists are launching their movement Sunday to correct what they call unconstitutional decision by a ceremonial president to retain sacked Army Chief Gen Rukmangud Katawal at the request of 18 ruling parties.
Maoists launch the movement with torchlight rallies nationwide.
Koirala called for unity in the divided Congress party while launching the three-day party general congress attended by 1,250 delegates.
Party spokesman Arjun Narsingh KC called for collective leadership in the party.
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2009-10-30T23:25:00.001-07:00

Sri Lankan president flies back home

Kathmandu, 31 Oct: Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa returns home Saturday after concluding a three-day official visit.
He returns home one day ahead of a Maoist strike to topple government.
The president rescheduled his visit by three days to beat the strike.
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Maoists call off strike

Kathmandu, 31 Oct, Maoists Friday called off a strike of five eastern hill districts that paralyzed life in the region.
They called the strike to force authorities to act against assassins of an activist and compensation demand.
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Nepali striker signs Rs 6.36 million deal with Indian club

Kathmandu, 31 Oct: Striker Anil Gurung has signed a three-year Rs 6.36 million contract with Shillong Lajung Football Club.
Gurung is the highest paid professional footballer of Nepal.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“The statute will be drafted but could be delayed by six months to a year. As the new constitution should last several years, a sustainable constitution sou8ld be drafted.”

(Sher Bahadur Deuba, The Himalayan Times, 31 Oct.)

‘Girija Prasad Koirala would be be happy with a republic if he was president. But Prachanda wants a republic. Where’s the point of agreement, Monarchy has been abolished but what’s to replace it.”

(Dr Tulsi Giri, Annapurna Post. 31 Oct.)

‘We know how be to prime minister if we act like them [incumbent rulers]. But we hate becoming prime minister in that fashion. We want o be prime minister of the strength of the people and their desire and not on the desire of some people.)

(Chairman Prachanda, Annapurna Post, 31 Oct.)
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2009-10-29T23:48:00.000-07:00

Skydiving record

Kathmandu, 30 Oct: Jai Kishan of India, Tom Noonan from USA and Wendy Smith of New Zealand Wednesday jumped out of a Fishtail Air AS 350 B3 from 21,3000 feet just south of Mount Everest and landed on a plateau at Gorakshep, Kalapattar.
Suman Pandey of Explore Himalaya said the feat was a skydiving record.
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Kathmandu, 30 Oct:

MEDIA GOOGLE

“The PLA fighters should be rehabilitated in society or integrated in the national forces well before the promotion of the new constitution and women and Dalit combatants should get the first priority.”

(PM Nepal, The Himalayan Times, 30 Oct.)

“The majority of them [prostitutes] want to continue with the profession. Half the females tell us outright that they will not get enough money if they leave this profession.”

(SP Nawaraj Silwal, The Himalayan Times, 30 Oct.)
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2009-10-29T22:57:00.000-07:00

Maoists preparing for launch of mass movement

Kathmandu, 30 Oct: One day after the cabinet asked Maoists to sit down for negotiations to end a five-month political stalemate, top party leader, including Chairman Prachanda, held a training camp for activists at party headquarters in the capital.
Internal preparations were being finalized for the launch of the movement from Sunday.
Maoists said they will blockade the Valley and surround the airport servicing the capital to disrupt flights.
Even while internal preparations were being finalized for the movement launch, Maoist Vice-chairman Dr Baburam Bhattarai said Friday the door was still open for talks with government.
Negotiations to end the stalemate look slim.
Nnnn

Sri Lankan president on pilgrimage in Lumbini

Kathmandu, 30 Oct: Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa, on a pilgrimage, Friday offered prayers and puja at Maya Debi temple in Lumbini, the birthplace of The Buddha.
He is also scheduled to inaugurate a monastery built by Sri Lanka.
Nepal has leased land to foreign governments to construct monasteries at the sacred site.
Rajapaksa returns to the capital later Friday for talks with Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal.
He flies back home Saturday, one day before the Maoist launch of nation-wide anti-government protests to dislodge government.
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Life in eastern region disturbed

Kathmandu, 30 Oct. Normal life in the hill districts of the eastern region was disturbed for the second successive day Friday by a Maoist strike call.
Vehicular movement on highways has come to a complete halt.
Maoists are demanding action against those responsible for the murder of an activist and compensation.
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PM Nepal’s brother appointed Hong Kong consul general

Kathmandu, 30 Oct: Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal’s brother, a mechanical engineer at the industry ministry, has been appointed consul general of Hong Kong.
The cabinet Thursday endorsed the proposal to appoint Binod Kumar Pandey presented by Industry Minister Mahendra Yadav of UCP-UML.
A government rule was amended to facilitate the appointment of the prime minister’s brother who is from the technical service.
Normally, officials from the general service are appointed consul generals.
In a give and take between the three biggest ruling parties, Suresh Chandra Chalise, close to Nepali Congress, was appointed ambassador to United Kingdom while Shyam Lal Tabdar, affiliated with LMJF) was appointed ambassador to Egypt.
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Delayed foreign ministry denial of controversial Sujata statement

By Bhola B Rana

Kathmandu, 30 Oct: The foreign ministry Thursday denied a statement of Foreign Minister Sujata Koirala saying she had evidence Nepal’s Maoists were arming their Indian counterparts across the border.
The foreign ministry denied the report published by the Indian Express while it made no comments when the claim made by her in Nepalgunj were first published in the Nepali print media.
‘It is an outright concoction and has no truth whatsoever.
“The news report has malicious intention to put the word in the mouth of Koirala,” the statement said referring to the Indian Express report with the headline: I have evidence of Indian, Nepal Maoist links.
The ministry also said Sujata made no mention of the issue in Nepalgunj or elsewhere.
The foreign ministry went one step ahead of Indian Home Minister P Chidambaran who earlier said Indian Naxalites were receiving arms supplies from Myanmar and Bangladesh and ‘possibly’ from Nepal’s Maoists.
Sujata got embroiled in a controversy earlier saying there was no border problem with India even as lawmakers in parliament said India was encroaching the border.
The foreign minister is placating India.
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Kulshekhar Sharma dead

Kathmandu, 30 Oct: Kulshekhar Sharma died Thursday.
He was 84.
During a long as a civil servant career, he was government’s chief secretary, governor of Nepal Rashtra Bank and royal Nepalese ambassador to USA.
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TRADE, COMMERCE, ECONOMY

Revenue collection up

Kathmandu, 30 Oct: Government collected Rs 34.32 billion if the first three months of the current fiscal year ending mid-October—up 53.7 percent compared to the same period the previous year.
The government hopes to collect Rs 177 billion in revenue this fiscal year.
But two successive governments haven’t been able to increase development expenditure despite increased revenue collection.
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Travel agents meet

Kathmandu, 30 Oct: The 43rd world congress of United Federation of Travel Agents Association (UFTAA) will be held in the capital from 20 to 23 November.
Tourism, entrepreneurs from 80 countries are participating in the congress.
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Foundation stone of Kulekhani-III laid

Kathmandu, 30 Oct: At a time when government is facing a power crunch, Energy Minister Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat Thursday laid the foundation of the Rs 2.43 billion 14MW Kulekhani III at Bhaise.
The project will be completed in 2012.
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MEDIA GOOGLE

“The comprehensive peace agreement (CPA) was signed between the then seven party alliance and the rebel Maoists three years ago. The agreement is irrelevant in the changed context and the government wants to modify it. I think my proposal to revise the CPA is in favour of Nepal Army and the country.”

(Defence Minister Bidya Bhandari, The Rising Nepal, 30 Oct.)

2009-10-29T02:52:00.001-07:00

Sri Lankan president arrives on three-day official visit

Kathmandu, 29 Oct: Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa arrived Thursday on a rescheduled three-day official visit ahead of planed Maoists anti-government protests Sunday.
He laves for home Saturday before the launch of the agitation.
Security for the visitor was tight.
Roads were closed for vehicular from the airport to Soaltee Hotel for one hour for enhanced security.
The president goes on a pilgrimage to Lumbini Friday.
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CPN-UML lawmakers ask govt. not seek solution outside parliament

Kathmandu, 29 Oct: CPN-UML lawmakers asked government Thursday not to bypass parliament to pass the annual budget 2009/10.
The budget hasn’t been approved with Maoist obstruction of legislative proceedings for more than five months.
The lawmakers asked government led by CPN-UML to seek a consensus with Maoists.
Government is contemplating use of force, proroguing parliament and promulgation on an ordinance to enforce the budget.
Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, three days ahead of the threatened Maoist protest, suggested amendment in the constitution to meet Maoist demands.
Maoists at one time had demanded amendment to clearly define powers of the president.
Maoists have adopted a hard attitude to government.
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Curfew in Bara

Kathmandu, 29 Oct: Local administration Bara slaped a curfew around Kasuwa area after violence broke out Thursday over granting of a fish pond tender without contract.
Police fired several rounds of teargas shells to control rioters.
Curfew continued for the second day Thursday in Bhojpur where Maoists attacked and seriously injured a campus chief there.
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