Secretary-General Disappointed Nepal Constituent Assembly Expired without Adoption

of Constitution; Says Courage, Wisdom Needed in Current Uncertain Period

 

The following statement was issued on 28 May by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is disappointed that Nepal’s Constituent Assembly has expired without the adoption of the long-awaited constitution.  The process of constitution-making, which began in 2008, had produced important agreements on almost all aspects of a new constitution except State restructuring (federalism).  The United Nations, which has closely supported the peacemaking and reform process in Nepal over many years, shares the deep regret felt by the Nepalese people at this time.

Nepal has entered an uncertain constitutional and political period.  The Government and the political leaders, as well as leaders of various communities, need to demonstrate the courage and wisdom to come together to address the challenges the nation faces.  As an immediate priority, a political consensus on the way forward is essential to ensure stability and continuity.  The work of constitution-making should resume without delay, building on what has so far been achieved, and the appropriate legitimate and representative mechanism for this should be found through consensus.  These decisions will require flexibility, creativity, and above all the willingness to set aside lesser differences in the national interest.

The Secretary-General urges all political parties and stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to the spirit of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and safeguard the achievements of the past several years.

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For information media • not an official record