Nepal's opposition parties sit for talks

After the month-long political deadlock, Nepal's opposition parties sat for talks with High Level Political Committee (HLPC), a four-party mechanism that backs the Interim Election Government.

During the first negotiation between the two sides that began on Tuesday, opposition parties put forth a long list of demands saying that they will take part in the election process if their demands are addressed. The HLPC held talks with CPN-Maoist-led alliance, Madhesi Janadhikar Forum Nepal (MFJ-N) and Federal Socialist Party Nepal (FSPN) separately.

The relation between the HLPC and opposition parties has strained since the formation of chief justice-led government.

The CPN-Maoist demanded the dissolution of current chief justice-led government and suspension of four-party agreement signed on March 13 that led to the formation of the interim government. MFJ-N and FSPN however said the number of seats under the proportional category should be increased to ensure the representation of marginalized community in the Constituent Assembly (CA).

"The first day talk has ended with a positive note, we will again sit for talks," CPN-Maoist Chairman Mohan Baidya told media after the much-awaited talks.

Similarly, MFJ-N Chairman Upendra Yadav said they are ready to join the election process if their demands are fulfilled. In the negotiation, Yadav submitted 8-point charter of demands. " Election is possible only if our demands are addressed immediately, " Yadav said.

Nepal will have its second CA election on November 19. But some opposition parties are threatening to boycott the election if their demands are not addressed. According to leaders, the talks between the two sides have generated a hope of deal that will ease the complicated election process.