Kathmandu, October 12:

CPN-Maoist spokesperson Krishna Bahadur Mahara today urged Non Resident Nepalis (NRN) community to be committed for supporting Nepal in making a republic, democratic and sovereign country.

“We want the intellectual circle, presently living overseas, to understand the root of the problem Nepal is facing and be a part of the campaign to construct a new Nepal with their expertise and resources,” he said, addressing an interaction on role of NRNs for federal democratic republic Nepal, organised by the International Bureau of the party.

“Nepal should reap benefits out of the sincere patriotism of NRNs and their ability and resources should be the source of development of this country,” he added. He said that a circle of Nepali citizens in the country are doubting and even misunderstanding the contribution and possible future role of the Maoists, adding that the NRN circle, however has understood that the past of the Maoists was not futile.

“We do want the constituent assembly (CA) election but, we also are very much aware

that the polls should not be manipulated at any cost by those who do not want a radical change. Let there be no chance for regressive forces to influence the election,” he said.

CPN-M International Bureau in-charge CP Gajurel appreciated patriotism and sincerity of NRNs. Dr Jugal Bhurtel, NRN Association’s spokesperson, said all NRNs should be given right to vote in the CA polls and their vote will play a decisive role in making of a new constitution.

He also urged the government to accept all who have lived 182 days abroad as NRNs. Under the present provision, the government accepts only those who have lived two years abroad, excluding all students and workers working on short-term contract.

He also said that those Nepal-origin people, who got citizenship from various countries, should be given a Person of Nepali Origin (PNO) card.

Presently, NRN representatives from various countries are in Nepal to organise the organisation’s third international meet in Kathmandu next week.