UML decides to convene 'decisive talks' with UCPN (M) on power-sharing issue

The ruling CPN (UML) on Sunday decided to hold "decisive talks" with the
main coalition partner Unified CPN (Maoist) to finalize the power-sharing
issue and cabinet expansion very soon.

A Standing Committee (SC) meeting of the party held at its parliamentary
party office at Singha Durbar took a decision to this effect

"We decided to hold decisive talks with the Maoists in order to give a
full shape to the cabinet very soon," UML leader Ishwor Pokhrel said while
informing about the decisions of the SC.

According to Pokhrel, UML team would conduct serious discussions with the
Maoist leaders either today or Monday to reach an agreement on the
power-sharing issue.

Pokhrel said the meeting also discussed whether or not the Ministry of
Home Affairs should be given to the Maoists.

"It was agreed during the meeting that UML should not give ministries
related to security and defense to the UCPN (Maoist)," he said.

During the meeting Prime Minster Jhala Nath Khanal, who is also the UML
chairman, is learnt to have told the party standing committee that it

would be difficult for the party to expand the cabinet without involving

ministers from the UCPN (Maoist).

Meanwhile, the KP Oli's faction of UML has urged the SC to expand the