News update from Nepal, June 9, 2005 News Update from Nepal June 9, 2005 The Establishment The establishment in Nepal is trying to consolidate the authority of the state in society through various measures, such as beefing up security measures, extending the control of the administration, dismantling the base of the Maoists and calling the political parties for reconciliation. On May 27 King Gyanendra in his address called on the leaders of the agitating seven-party alliance“to shoulder the responsibility of making all democratic in­stitutions effective through free and fair elections.” He said,“We have consistently held discussions with everyone in the interest of the nation, people and democracy and will continue to do so in the future. We wish to see political parties becoming popular and effective, engaging in the exercise of a mature multiparty democracy, dedicated to the welfare of the nation and people and to peace and good governance, in accordance with people’s aspirations.” Defending the existing Constitution of Nepal 1990 the King argued,“At a time when the nation is grappling with terrorism, the shared commitment and involvement of all political parties sharing faith in democracy is essential to give permanency to the gradually im­proving peace and security situation in the country.” He added,“Necessary preparations have already been initiated to hold these elections, and activate in stages all elected bodies which have suffered a setback during the past three years.” However, King Gy­anendra reiterated that the February I decision was taken to safeguard democracy from terrorism and to ensure that the democratic form of governance, stalled due to growing disturbances, was made effective and meaningful. He added,“Smaller nations must al­ways remain alert in safeguarding their identity.” Speaking to selected editors at the royal palace on May 31, the King said,“The role of the King of Nepal is for the Nepali people to decide, not for foreigners.” On June 1 the Speaker of the dissolved Parliament, Tara Nath Ranabhat, while rational­izing the royal takeover, argued,“The King has expressed commitment to democracy at home and abroad. Let us move ahead with this agenda. It is for the welfare of the coun­try, and the constitution too will be reactivated. Even if a referendum were held now, the King would not lose…. But there will be a turbulence.” On June 5 the Vice-Chairman of the Council of Ministers Dr. Tulsi Giri challenged the agitating lawyers and politicians to move to the Supreme Court instead of taking to the streets if they want the dissolved House of Representatives reinstated.“Lawyers have to exercise legal power by moving to the apex court. Leave street protests to the political parties.” He asked,“How can a dead body be revived? Persons responsible for maintaining law and order have no right to violate the government’s prohibitory orders. If they defy the government’s orders, then security forces can stop them.” To refurbish its image, the government on May 18 re­leased several political leaders and students from various parties following Supreme