Kathmandu, September 17:

UK Minister for Asia, Shahid Malik, has said that he would emphasise the importance of holding credible elections to the constituent assembly (CA) on November 22 when he meets the Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala and others.

“All the political parties have worked hard to get to this moment; they need to continue to work together to make the historic election happen,” said Malik upon his arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) today.

Stating that the people of Nepal wanted the elections to CA, he said: “They have waited more than 50 years for this moment, and they should not have to wait any longer.” He also emphasised on bringing all minorities — Madhesis, Janajatis, women, Dalits and other excluded in the past — to the process to draw up the new constitution.

“Nepal’s future will not be successful without inclusion,” said Malik, adding that it was a lifetime opportunity for Nepal to allow all groups to play a role in constitution making process. “Constituent Assembly would boost the peace dividend; I will be talking to the government about the steps they will be taking for inclusion of all excluded groups and ethnic minorities,” he said.

He said that peace and prosperity go hand in hand, and added, “The government should be able to deliver education, health care and security and safety to its people, and that will happen only when the government reflects its people.” He is also meeting with ministers including the Maoist ministers, and representatives of civil society and donors.

He also promised to increase British development support in future. UK Department for International Development is the largest contributor to the Nepal Peace Trust Fund. It has so far contributed $9 million and will provide $11 million depending on progress.

RSS reports: French Ambassador to Nepal, Gills Henry Gerault, called on Chief Election Commissioner, Bhoj Raj Pokharel and discussed the ongoing preparations for the CA election.