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Maoists extend ceasefire

Ameet Dhakal

KATHMANDU: The Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) has extended ceasefire by another three months a few hours before the expiry of the truce. In a press statement, Chairman Prachanda said, "CPN-M is extending the ceasefire as per the aspirations of "the historic people's movement." The statement has, however, charged the Seven-Party Alliance (SPA) with not honouring the eight-point agreement signed with the rebels. "We are faithful and responsible towards the people but it is evident from the activities of the Seven-Party Alliance (SPA) led government that they are not complying with the eight-point agreement reached between the SPA and Maoists," the statement said. If the peace process fell apart, he said, "CPN (M) would be compelled to wage a `peaceful revolution'." The peace process enters a critical phase with the Government and the rebels embarking on a sensitive issue of arms management. The differences have already begun to surface. But the Government has adopted an arms-first policy.A five-member U.N. team lead by Swedish diplomat Staffan de Mistura arrived in Kathmadnu on Thursday to assess the area of support in arms management.

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