ITAHARI: CPN-UML secretary Yubaraj Gyawali today said that the tenure of the Constituent Assembly

can be extended through political consensus.

Talking to media persons in

Itahari in Sunsari, the UML secretary stressed the need of completing the statute-drafting process within May 28 deadline set by

the Interim Constitution. But the deadline for the constitution can be extended on the grounds of political unity and understanding, he maintained.

Claiming that his party was ready to step down from the government if the main opposition agreed to come to consensus, he said, “We are ready to give up the government leadership provided the Unified CPN-Maoist demonstrates honesty and flexibility for the management of Maoist combatants and taking the peace process to logical conclusion.”

He, however, accused the Maoists of not being serious even though UML was exhibiting maximum flexibility for national consensus and cooperation. “The Maoists are pretending that they will not take any untoward step against the peace process but they are preparing for a people's revolt secretly,” he blamed. He also blamed that Maoist chairman Prachanda was behaving like a child. He said, “UCPN-Maoist can lead the government only after it corrects itself.”

Stressing on the need and significance of political consensus and unity among political forces for timely drafting of the constitution, he said, “If consensus can be forged, new constitution can be drafted within the remaining 70 days.” However, he warned that nation will face political and constitutional crisis if the statute cannot be framed within the stipulated time frame.