UN , USA and UK express concern over political situation in Nepal
By Ramesh Tiwari-
Kathmandu: The United Nations , the United States and Britain have expressed their concerns on violence in Saptari district of Nepal on March 7 .
Three persons were killed and several injured after police opened fire towards protestors who tried to disrupt CPN-UML’s programme in the district.
Issuing a statement here , the UN said ,” We are saddened by the loss of life and injuries which resulted from the recent violent clash in Saptari district between political party cadres and state security forces.”
Text of statement by United Nations Office of the Resident Coordinator in Nepal
” The United Nations in Nepal is seriously concerned by the escalation of tensions in the lead-up to the local elections announced for May. We are saddened by the loss of life and injuries which resulted from the recent violent clash in Saptari district between political party cadres and state security forces. Violence has no place in the freedom of expression and assembly. We call on security forces to comply with existing national and international standards on the use of force. At the same time, we urge the political parties to peacefully express their views in actions and statements.”
“We encourage inclusive and meaningful dialogue to create and strengthen a conducive environment for the conduct of the historical local elections. The United Nations is committed to working with all Nepalese to take the country towards a peaceful and prosperous future.”
Statement from the United States Embassy ,Kathmandu
“The United States is deeply concerned at signs of rising volatility in some areas of Nepal, including the recent clash in Saptari that resulted in the deaths of several protesters. The right to peacefully express one’s political views is a fundamental component of an inclusive democracy, but violence should not be part of the political discourse. We call on Nepali security forces to exercise maximum restraint as people express their democratic rights. Similarly, we encourage all protesters and parties to continue to engage in the democratic process through non-violent means.
We are encouraged to see the people and Government of Nepal prepare for historic local elections. This is an important step toward implementing the constitution and ensuring responsiveness and accountability in locales across the country.The United States remains committed to working with all Nepalis as they continue along their democratic path.”
Statement from the United Kingdom
” The UK is deeply concerned about the escalation of tensions in some areas of Nepal related to the local elections announced for May. We are saddened by the tragic loss of life in Saptari District yesterday. We call upon the security forces to demonstrate maximum restraint as people exercise their democratic rights and likewise urge all protesters and political parties to express their views peacefully.
We encourage the Government of Nepal and everyone involved in the political process to engage in meaningful dialogue that leads to a conducive environment for peaceful and broadly supported local elections. The UK remains committed to working with all Nepalis towards a more prosperous and stable Nepal.”
March 8 , 2017
