Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu, June 22:

CPN-UML standing committee member KP Sharma Oli said today there was no harm in seeking international backing for the cause of democracy which has remained ‘in limbo’ since the King’s February 1 takeover.

“It is okay for the King to seek international support to prolong his unconstitutional rule, but it is termed an interference in the country’s internal affairs when the world reminds him about the urgency to return to democracy,” Oli said at a talk programme at the Reporters’ Club.

Oil said it was not a crime of the parties to hold talks with the Maoists with a view to bringing them back to the mainstream. “You cannot expect the Maoists to give up violence without holding talks,” Oli said, adding: “But it is also impossible for the democratic forces to work with them unless they give up violence and accept the universal norms of democracy.”