UPDATE: Nepal Crisis

By Jodi Wynn, Newsdesk.org intern

[Read an earlier summary of Nepal’s political crisis]

King Gyanendra’s seizure of power in Nepal may be backfiring.

International military aid has been cut and the Maoist insurgency continues its attacks full-force.

Because Gyanendra has been unable to contain the rebellion, some former officials of Nepal’s Congress, which the king suspended on February 1, are discussing ways to abolish the monarchy, adopt a new constitution and work with the Maoists politically.

Gyanendra’s pro tem government, meanwhile, has “ruled out” mediated negotiations with the rebels, and says it can meet most of its military needs through internal funding sources.

Human rights groups that have entered Nepal since the royal coup are not as confident in the government, and are urging the king to restore civil liberties.

“Nepal’s military aid cut by U.K., India over state of emergency”
Bloomberg.com, February 23, 2005

“Maoists rule Nepal highways”
The Telegraph, February 22, 2005

“Nepal ‘can solve’ Maoists crisis”
HindustanTimes.com, February 23, 2005

“Pressure builds on King’s three-year plan”
Inter Press Service, February 21, 2005

“Uneasy days ahead for Nepal’s crown”
Times of India, February 23, 2005

“If donors quit, Nepal go it alone”
Indo-Asian News Service, February 23, 2005

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