Nepalgunj, June 1:

CPN-UML standing committee member Ishwor Pokhrel today said a front of leftist forces including the Maoists was not possible in the present context.

Pokhrel, also the member of a team formed by the CPN-UML for the unification of leftist forces, was speaking at a programme organised by the Banke chapter of Press Chautari. “Since the Maoists have not improved their conduct, they cannot be included in the front of leftist forces in the present circumstances,” he said.

“The Maoists have not returned seized land and property. How can the front be formed at a time when the Young Communist League is terrorising people?” Pokhrel said, adding: “The front — with the inclusion of the Maoists and YCL — is not acceptable to the UML until the Maoists improve their conduct.”

“If the date of constituent assembly (CA) poll is announced without preparation, it will create problems. The eight parties should be alert to this,” he said, adding that the government should address the demands of the janajatis and Madhesi people.

“The achievements of Jana Andolan II will not fructify until the new constitution is institutionalised,” he said.

“Why are the Maoists more interested in a republic being declared from the Legislature Parliament rather than holding the CA poll when they have already agreed to decide the fate of the monarchy in the first meeting of the CA?” he asked.