LAMJUNG: CPN-UML senior leader Jhalanath Khanal said local election dates should be announced at the earliest to give a way out to the country from the current political stalemate.

Speaking with journalists at a press meet organised by the Press Chautari Nepal, Lamjung chapter, in Beshishahar, Khanal also demanded that the government create an election-conducive environment.

Meanwhile, Khanal said his party would stop obstructing the Parliament meetings if the government withdrew the Constitution amendment bill, which he claimed was unconstitutional and against national interests.

"It is disrespect to the nation to introduce such unconstitutional proposal at the House," he said, arguing the parties, therefore, should not entertain this bill.

He also added that the government did not hold any discussion with the opposition parties while drafting the amendment bill.

As the Madhesi and other agitating forces themselves expressed dissatisfaction over the bill, he argued, the government's motive behind the bill had come under the question.

Meanwhile, the former Prime Minister said his party was in favour of institutionalising federalism in the nation.

Khanal also said only his party was capable of bringing all parties into a consensus to lead the national politics towards a solution to current problems.