UN mission assesses peace process

A high-level United Nations (UN) mission is assessing what role the world body can play in the peace process to end Nepal's decade-long armed conflict. More than 13,000 people have died since the Maoists launched their armed rebellion against the state in 1996. The seven-member UN team, led by Staffan de Mistura, arrived in the Himalayan kingdom on Friday after an invitation from the Nepalese government and the Maoists to help. The Maoists and the interim government - a coalition of seven parties formed after King Gyanendra's direct rule was ended by mass protests - have been negotiating since April. The talks have been dominated by discussions on how to deal with the weapons held by the Maoists’ People’s Liberation Army and the Nepalese Army. De Mistura said that the Nepalis had demonstrated their desire for peace and that the UN was committed to helping them achieve that goal. His mission had met with key government and Maoists leaders to get a clear understanding of their positions. The UN wants the government and the Maoists to reach an understanding on the issue of arms management but local conflict experts maintain agreement is lacking, with neither side having a clear plan on the Demilitarisation, Demobilisation and Reintegration process in the country. De Mistura said on Monday that the current situation was a "unique opportunity". "The international community, represented in this case by the UN, is focusing on Nepal, and Nepal has got a very special moment in order to make the peace process work." He urged the government and Maoists to reach an understanding so the UN was in a better position to help make it a reality. De Mistura said an agreement would enable the UN to look at the electoral process - a crucial element of a peace agreement and democratic solution. The government and Maoists have agreed to hold elections to the Constituent Assembly (CA) in less than six months. Regarded as the most significant part of the peace process, the CA would include the Maoists and work towards the framing of a new constitution and the forming of a democratic republic. De Mistura said from what he had heard the priority for everyone was the continuation of a "constructive" peace process. NN/GS/DS