Kathmandu (AsiaNews) - The United Communist Party (Maoist) of Nepal (Ucpn-m) has called off strikes that have lasted since May 1. The decision came late last night under pressure from the international community and UN, which in recent days warned about the risk of a new civil war. The strike intended to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal and the signing of the new constitution. But tens of thousands of people have turned against the Maoists in different parts of country. To date, the toll from the clashes is three dead and dozens wounded.
After the meeting with delegates from the international community, Maoist leader and former Prime Minister Prachanda said: "Our program will continue until the country has a new constitution and a logical conclusion of the peace process is reached." "But the model of protest - he continued - will change, and we will organize public rallies in different cities, including Kathmandu and on Sunday surround Singhadurbar, the seat of government."
The government spokesman Ishor Pokharel underlines the futility and risk of the actions of the Maoist party, which in the days of strikes forced the closure of schools, factories and shops. "No party - he said - has the right to prevent people from moving and going to work. The Maoists stopped their strike after the people rebelled against their atrocities. "
