The Secretary-General is dismayed by the latest developments in Nepal where, on the eve of a major demonstration planned for tomorrow in Kathmandu, the Government has arrested a large number of political party leaders and other critics.

The Representative of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Nepal, Mr. Ian Martin, has raised the matter with the Government. OHCHR- Nepal officers have visited 97 of the more than 120 persons reported to be in detention.

The Secretary-General had repeatedly called for urgent dialogue in order to avoid confrontation, and for a bilateral ceasefire between the Government and the Communist Party of Nepal –Maoist. This appeal was not heeded and the four-month unilateral ceasefire declared by the Maoists came to an end.

The Secretary-General once again appeals to all sides for calm, the suspension of fighting and the urgent initiation of an inclusive national dialogue.