Hetauda, January 31

CPN-UML Secretary Pradip Gyawali has accused Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal of jeopardising the implementation of the constitution.

Speaking at a press conference in Hetauda today, the UML leader accused the PMof duplicity. “He talks one thing when he’s in front of Madhes-based parties while his views change in front of others,” he said.

He also blamed the prime minister for uncertainty surrounding statute implementation. Further, the opposition leader warned of dire consequences if the government failed to announce dates for elections.

“As election is the only expedient way to ensure implementation of the constitution and we do not have much time, the government must announce poll dates without delay. Otherwise, we’ll be compelled to take some hard choices,” he said.

The UML leader described the government’s attempt to pass the constitution amendment bill as an attempt to appease some foreign powers.  Gyawali also slammed the Madhes-based parties for taking the country hostage. “The entire country, including the people of Madhes are in favour of elections. However, the Madhes-based parties have become a major roadblock to the country’s aspiration to go for polls,” he observed.

Gyawali also criticised the ‘so-called campaign’ in Madhes against his party. “In fact, a handful of Madhesi leaders that have launched campaigns to banish UML from the Tarai are the ones who do not have any public support for themselves,” he said.  “It’s unfortunate that the government supports those who are airing remarks to split the country in the name of statute amendment.”