NEWSMAKER OF 2003
GP KOIRALA: He leads the agitation against regression. It has not really taken off. Talks about a hidden agenda, but is remarkably consistent in not disclosing what it is. Vows to see the back of prime minister Surya Bhadur Thapa. Age has not withered his temper, nor has adversity mellowed him. He remains as pugnacious as he was in his youth. Took on the Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority.
January 26. APF Chief Krishna Mohan Shrestha shot dead.
January 29. Maoists declare ceasefire agree to hold talks.
April 27: The government and the Maoists hold the first round of talks.
May 9: The second round of peace talks concluded with the government agreeing to restrict army’s movement within five-km periphery of army bases. It later denied reaching such an agreement.
May 30: Prime Minister Chand resigns and the King asks the political parties to recommend a common name for the post of PM.
June 4: The King appoints RPP leader Surya Bahadur Thapa Prime Minister.
August 17: The government and the Maoists hold the third round of talks.
August 27: The Maoists unilaterally announce the collapse of talks and ceasefire.