KATHMANDU: Maoist Spokesperson, Dina Nath Sharma, on Thursday revealed that the international community was mounting pressure on the government to not take any action against the Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), Rookmangud Katwal.

Speaking at an interaction programme at the Reporters club, Sharma said, “The international community is not in favour of any action against the CoAS, the crucial question is whether to bow to their pressure.” Sharma also claimed that a conspiracy had been hatched to dissolve the interim constitution 2063 and impose autocracy. Sharma added, “The reactionary and regressive forces are trying to overthrow the democratic system with the help of Nepali Army.”

Sharma further said that his party was ready to step out of the government anytime. About the clarification issue of CoAS, Sharma added, “Prime Minister had consulted the top leaders of the political parties before seeking clarification from the CoAS but some of them have changed their voice after pressure from the international community.”

Vice President of the Nepali congress, Gopal Man Shrestha, warned that his party would take to the streets if the government sacked the CoAS. He said, “The NC cannot accept any action that would demoralise and weaken the national army.” He also accused the Maoists of exercising monopoly in all spheres of government activity.

UML leader Keshav Badal urged the UCPN-Maoist and NC to seek solution through dialogue and consensus instead of provoking each other. Badal said, “The root of the problem is the Military Act 2006 which has many loopholes.”

Ram Janam Chaudari of Madhesi Janadikar Forum said that government was trying to politicise the national army. He added, “The CoAS should not be sacked because his clarification letter is satisfactory. We will not support the government if it decides to sack him.”