Nepal King Urged to Leave Gracefully, Maoists Extend Lead
By Jane Clark
April 21, 2008 | Printer Friendly

As reported by the Associated Press, the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) has won half of the directly elected seats for a constitution drafting assembly in this month’s election.  The other parties trail far behind, with each winning fewer than 40 seats.  The directly elected seats constitute approximately 40 percent of the total seats; the remaining seats are appointed positions allotted to political parties based on the percentage of votes they receive through a separate proportional ballot.  The appointed seats are intended to facilitate the participation of women and underrepresented groups.  So far, the Maoists also lead in the proportional tally. 

The New York Times writes that the Maoists’ significant lead has defied predictions.  This will put them in the position to have a large impact on Nepal’s future, since they will be involved in rewriting the constitution and simultaneously governing.  The Maoists, a former guerilla organization, have pledged to work with other parties.  Still, it is not clear whether they will try to push for some of their more radical demands.  They have said that they will not try to hinder investment or nationalize property; their goal is to remove the long standing Hindu monarchy.  It is still unclear whether the citizens have voted for the Maoists out of support or intimidation.

As their political dominance grows more certain, the Maoists are increasing the pressure on King Gyanendra to exit gracefully, according to Al Jazeera.  If he does not abide by the Maoists’ requirements, he will be forced to leave.  In his absence, the country will be declared a democratic republic.  BBC News reports that although there have been reports that the king will go into exile in India, his press office has denied these rumors, and the king still has not indicated whether he will agree to step down voluntarily.

Links:

Associated Press: Nepal's Former Rebels Extend Lead  

New York Times: Nepal's Maoists Lead in Early Election Results

Al Jazeera: Nepal King Urged to Exit Gracefully

BBC News: Nepal's King Denies Exile Reports