Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Kathmandu (Agenzia Fides) - “Tension and protests cannot be placated The country is still blocked by a farmers strike in the east of the country. The farmers are protesting against the new constitution which they say fails to protect their rights. Clashes between the farmers and Maoist rebel groups degenerated into widespread violence when a young boy was killed” Pro Prefect Apostolic Fr Pius Perumana, told Fides.
The new temporary constitution sanctioned the rebels’ participation in parliament and offered hope for the restoration of peace. “The Maoist- said Fr. Perumana - leaders took a step forward in negotiations and accepted compromise and legality. However it would seem that not all the rebel groups are under the control of the leaders and that there are still elements of rebellion and violence in the lower ranks”. After years of civil strife the Maoists have now begun to disarm as agreed handing weapons over to the United Nations.
In the meantime time general elections announced for June will probably be postponed. According to the new constitution parliament will comprise 330 members, including 83 Maoists who will be the second largest parliamentary group. The role of the monarchy, with less power and which some would see as a purely representative figure, is a point to be settled.
Fr. Pius notes “Despite the political uncertainty, the Catholic community prays for peace, celebrates the Sacraments and continues pastoral and charity work. An important pastoral assembly was held in December 2006 to lay the basis for a new pastoral plan for the life of the Church in Nepal. Today our motto is ‘pray and patient waiting and hope’ that the situation may improve for the good of the people of Nepal who have suffered so much in recent years”. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 22/1/2007 righe 28 parole 281)
