(FNJ/IFEX) – The following is a 9 November 2006 FNJ press release: SPA-Maoist agreement expresses commitment to complete press freedom In a historic agreement, the Maoists and the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) have expressed their full commitment to complete press freedom. In the agreement, the political parties also express their commitment to a competitive multiparty […]
(FNJ/IFEX) – The following is a 9 November 2006 FNJ press release:
SPA-Maoist agreement expresses commitment to complete press freedom
In a historic agreement, the Maoists and the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) have expressed their full commitment to complete press freedom.
In the agreement, the political parties also express their commitment to a competitive multiparty democratic system, civil liberties, fundamental human rights, the rule of law and all other norms and values of a democratic system.
The agreement was signed on 8 November 2006 after 21 hours of rigorous discussion between the Seven Party Alliance and the Maoists that took place at the Prime Minister’s residence at Baluwatar. The meeting has finally produced a historic agreement, giving way to formal entry of the Maoists into the peaceful political mainstream.
The groundbreaking agreement was signed by the top leaders of all the eight parties and was made public on 8 November, after 1:00 a.m. (local time).
The agreement addresses a wide range of issues, such as the fate of the monarchy; arms management; the interim constitution, legislature and government; and an electoral system for a constituent assembly.
The Federation of Nepalese Journalists (FNJ) welcomes the landmark accord between the Seven Party Alliance and the Maoists.