Kathmandu, August 2, 2006 Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and Maoist supremo Prachanda today “seriously” discussed the possibility of coming to a common stance on arms management before the UN team leaves for New York tomorrow evening. A section of the people around Koirala said the meeting was indeed a successful one “given the positive element,” some downplayed it “as far as arriving at a common ground” is concerned. The meeting was held at the PM’s residence at Baluwatar. It was billed as crucial since the deadline set by the UN mission to come to a common stance is expiring tomorrow. The talks were aimed at what a highly placed source called an effort “ at not forfeiting the opportunities currently up for grabs.” Koirala had earlier in the day told the NC Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting that he would put forth his point of view “very clearly” to Prachanda. NC CWC member Laxman Ghimire said “Girijababu had told us I will put what I have to tell Prachanda clearly now,” Ghimire also said that since the PM was very much particular about sticking to his own stance on arms management and path to election to a constituent assembly, “there were very little chance of the two sides coming to a common view by tomorrow.” Let CA decide status of King, says NC The Nepali Congress today submitted a 17-point suggestion to the Interim Constitution Drafting Committee (ICDC) after finalising its agenda at its extended Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting. The party, known for its “left of centre policy”, made it clear that it is for identifying the position of the monarch as interim pending election to a constituent assembly which could be held within a year after the formation of an interim administration. However it has stopped short of categorically using the term “interim” for the monarch, with the statement issued merely saying “status of the monarch will be as decided by the constituent assembly.” But the party has remained silent on the strength of the interim parliament although it has indicated that apart from the sitting members of the House of Representatives and newly elected members of the National Assembly, there will be additional members picked up as part of the political understanding reached. It has, however, said the strength will be decided through political understanding. It has stuck to its stand that the HoR can be dissolved only after the members of the newly elected constituent assembly attend their first meeting. The NC leadership has, however, suggested changes in the composition of the Judicial Council and also suggested that the Chief Justice be appointed by the cabinet.