A year ago, who would have ever thought or anticipated that the Maoist of Nepal would be part of an interim parliament and an active entity in formulating a new democratic constitution? Known for their efficient and strategic planning with intense and aggressive implementation, they have in many ways overcome public skepticism and have initiated radical transformation in their means to achieve their goals. Once committed to an armed revolution as the only way, they have now adopted non-violence as their principal means of resistance and bringing about change.
While there are certainly internal and external conditions that created, coaxed, nudged and facilitated this transformation, one cannot however overlook the important fact that decisions still needed to be decisively taken at the highest level, to move towards such a progressive direction. At the risk of being ridiculed and misunderstood by their own cadres and support base, the Maoist leadership had the political will and courage to take pragmatic steps without necessarily giving up their core demand.
These transitions adequately demonstrate a sustained process of deep self-criticism and serious introspection on the part of the Maoist to be able to make necessary adjustments to the changing demands of the situation. They have wittingly maneuvered themselves to a stage of utmost political relevance at this point in time, so much so, that it is now quite unrealistic to visualize the future of Nepal without the active role of the Maoist. From the status of rebels, they have succeeded in reaching the pinnacle of political relevance. In the end, politics is perception, which the Maoist tactically and purposefully used it to their greater advantage.
Nepal is going through a critical juncture in their history and quite naturally, the developments that evolve in this window of time will define the course of its future. The positive developments of the Maoist role in the transition of Nepal is however not the end itself. No doubt, they have broadened the possibilities of a sustainable peace; yet, the Maoist will have to search deeper within themselves to ensure that Nepal does not go back into a state of war. Hence, the new constitution has to contain inclusive provisions to guaranty and safeguard the rights of the various ethnic groups of Nepal.
The critical point at this juncture however lies in their willingness and ability to create a genuine political consensus, which invariably demands addressing political hurts and divisions that resulted out of the conflict. Violations of human rights and loss of human life were perpetuated by both government agencies and the Maoist and therefore for the healing of the nation, the formation of a Truth Commission is inevitable. Perhaps at this time, when the momentum of the process is on their side, it would be best to work their way forward towards a national reconciliation process, so that unresolved wounds will not grow to haunt the future.
In the end, these positive developments in Nepal need to be appreciated and supported. These transformations are amazing in the light of the fact that Nepal in the near past was one of the most violent situations in the region. The intensity and depth in which dialogue is being pursued to address all contentious issues and disagreements is inspirational and proves that differences after all can be resolved through peaceful means. It only needs the political will and the human spirit to recognize that indeed we are all interdependent on each other. Nepal, in its own way has shown the path.
