Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Kathmandu (Agenzia Fides) - “The country is experiencing a time of uncertainty and tension. However, I do not think there is anyone who would want to return to the dark ages of chaos and crisis. Nepal is experiencing a leadership crisis,” Fr. Pius Perumana, Pro-Vicar Apostolic of Nepal told Agenzia Fides in commenting the events that have been taking place in the nation's capital in recent days. “We continue to pray that everything will turn out for the best, for the good of Nepal's society, which is in need of harmony and stability. We are in the Lord's hands. The problem is that too many political leaders are only worried about their own private interests or those of their party, and place the interests of the nation on the back-burner. No one is really concerned about the people's needs, the real needs of the population. Many suffer from hunger and misery. There are social and development policies for everyone. They talk about a government of national unity, but we do not know how things will evolve. We are hoping for the best.”
Some of the people have, in recent days, gone out into the streets in response to Nepal President Ram Baran Yadav's violation of the Constitution in refusing to remove the Chief of Staff General Rukmanga Katawal upon the request of the government. In fact, Prime Minister Prachanda, leader of the Maoist party, has resigned as a result. The Maoists have encouraged their people to organize protests throughout the country. The demonstrators have launched slogans against the “autocratic president,” calling him a “new monarch.” The police prohibited any demonstrations in the area surrounding the Presidential Palace in Kathmandu. Tension is extremely high. Members of the Maoist Party in the lawmaking assembly have decided, after a meeting, to block and boycott sessions.
The clash between the two highest state institutions has led to confusion, manifestations, and disorder. The initial cause of the contrast is the refusal of Katawal to insert former Maoist rebels in the national army. There is a high risk of fighting and violence in many areas. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 8/5/2009)
