Prachanda meets CPN-UML leader in fence-mending bid

Amid deepening political crisis triggered by his sacking of the army chief, Nepal's caretaker Premier and Maoist chief Prachanda today met former ally Jhalanath Khanal of CPN-UML in a bid to mend fences and favoured forging of "national consensus" to resolve the issue.Prachanda, who went to Khanal's residence to meet him, told him that he was ready to cooperate if President Ram Baran Yadav rectified his "mistake" of not endorsing the Cabinet's decision to sack Gen Rukumangad Katawal.     

Prachanda, who resigned as Prime Minister on Monday, said "there is no other option than moving ahead by forging a national consensus to resolve the current political crisis," according to UML sources."We have agreed to continue dialogue between the two parties to improve our relations." Khanal told reporters after the meeting that he was making efforts to promote cooperation and collaboration among political parties in order to form a government of national consensus.  

    Khanal said he asked the Maoist chief to cooperate in forming a new government and Prachanda assured him that he would not obstruct the process.The Maoist chief responded in a positive manner, he said.Khanal is the probable candidate for the Prime Minister's post as he has the support from the opposition Nepali Congress and smaller parties to form a government under his leadership.   

   President Yadav yesterday gave a Saturday deadline to political parties for formation of a new government.The two leaders, Prachanda and Khanal, also agreed to improve the relationship between their two parties, political sources said.