Itahari, September 15 :

Former prime minister and president of the Rastriya Janashakti Party Surya Bahadur Thapa today said that the Maoists are working overtime to take control of the Kathmandu Valley. He claimed that the Maoists crippled the valley for a day simply over the rumour of arms import as a simulation exercise to capture the valley. “The activities of the Maoists need monitoring,” he said.

Addressing an eastern regional meet of his party cadres in Inaruwa, Thapa said that the people’s freedom won’t materialise until the Maoists’ arms are confiscated. He stressed that arms should be fully managed prior to the election to the constituent assembly. Pointing out that arms management of the Maoists’ army was not enough, he said, “The Maoist militias in villages too possess arms. They are making trouble for the people. Why is everyone keeping quiet?” Election to the constituent assembly will not be possible unless the Maoists’ arms are seized, he said.

Thapa stressed the need for unity among democratic forces. He alleged the government in the name of democracy was attacking the judiciary. He claimed the Maoists’ warnings and pressure were causing the government to totter.