Birgunj, October 2:

Former Prime Minister and the central president of the Rastriya Janshakti Party Surya Bahadur Thapa today opined that despite the announcement of a unilateral ceasefire by the Moaists the activities of the rebels are making the people suspicious of their intentions. Addressing a central regional level meeting of party workers here, Thapa said the Maoists’ ongoing violent activities are reflecting their true character.

Thapa also pointed out that the unilateral ceasefire notwithstanding, unless and until the Maoists declare a ceasefire in the real sense the government cannot be forced to hold peace talks. “How can we trust the Maoists as they are still continuing to kill, abduct and extort?” said Thapa. He also accused the government of not being serious towards creating an environment for peace talks. Speaking on the occasion, RJP co-president Dr Prakash Chandra Lohani said some corrupt ministers in the present cabinet were trying to sell off public property and give grant to Nepal Oil Corporation.