Doubt over deal between Nepal King and opposition

Katmandu continued to witness massive protests despite an apparent deal between King Gyanendra and leaders of the opposition Nepal Congress party.

Although many proclaimed victory over the breakthrough, just as many appeared apprehensive over any agreement with the monarch.

Many insisted on the creation of a new assembly to rewrite the constitution, and called for stripping the monarchy of any true political power.

Maoists, who had for the first time entered into coalition with Nepal's political parties, rejected the negotiations as a "sham" and threatened a blockade of Katmandu and other centers unless a constitutional convention is called. They also demanded that the monarchy should be written into history.

Sher Bahadur Deuba, prime minister when Gyanendra dissolved Parliament in 2002, has reportedly nominated another former prime minister, his one-time protege and foe, GP Koirala, to take the helm.

Over the next few days or weeks, we will have to see how well the opposition coalition holds together. According to early reports, all seven political parties in the coalition have agreed to Koirala resuming as prime minister.

Power to the People -- Nepali Times