US stance on the Maoists not changed: US Assistant Secy

Barry F Lowenkron, US Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labour, Sunday said that the US stance on the Maoists has not changed yet.

“One cannot have ballots and bullets in a democratic process,” he said, adding: “Intimidation and violence have no role whatsoever in the democratic process of any country. Nothing justifies the use of violence as a legitimate political tool.”

“The peace agreement contains clear commitments that are yet to be honoured by the Maoists,” he said, addressing a press briefing.

“The US strongly supports Nepal’s peace process and democratic development,” he said, adding, “We will do what we can to help ensure the success of the peace process.”

He urged the government to listen to the people before taking major political decisions. “We hope that the political parties and the government will find ways to listen to the voices of all of Nepal’s people and bring them into an inclusive, peaceful and democratic society.”

Responding to a query, he said that the US will support the Nepali people’s decision on monarchy. “The US has nothing special to say about the monarchy. It is up to the Nepali people to decide whether they want to keep the king or not.”

Praising Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala for his role in securing an agreement among the parties on the date for the constituent assembly elections, he said, “We now urge the interim government to draft and pass necessary election laws and ensure security across the country. Elections are the heart of democracy, and the Nepali people deserve the opportunity to have their voices heard through free and fair elections later this year,” he said.

Lowenkron said he also called for the appointment of commissioners in the National Human Rights Commission. “Like all commissions in democracies, the NHRC must be truly independent,” he said.

The US is ready to support Nepal over Bhutanese refugees, he said, but refused to comment on India’s possible role on repatriation.

Lowenkron has met government officials, leaders of political parties, human rights activists, and representatives of civil society with the objective of reviewing the ongoing developments in Nepal.