Statement Of Senator Patrick Leahy On Nepal in the US Congress on December 21, 2005 Some interesting points: (mostly verbatim) � The army continues to see itself as the defender of an anachronistic, corrupt and autocratic monarchy. � The political parties do not have a record of putting the interests of the nation above their own self interest. They urgently need to reform. Yet they are the real representatives of the Nepali people and there is no substitute for them. � The international appeal to the King for reconciliation have failed. The Bush Administration should apply whatever pressure it can, including denying U.S. visas to Nepali officials and their families. � The municipal elections announced by King Gyanendra for early next year, without any consultation with the political parties, are no solution. An attempt to apply a veneer of legitimacy to an otherwise undemocratic process will only prolong and exacerbate this crisis. � There is a growing possibility that the King�s obstinacy and unpopularity will trigger massive civil unrest, shootings and arrests of many more civilians by soldiers and police, Nepal�s further isolation, and perhaps the end of the monarchy itself. � 12 point understanding could be the basis for a national dialogue to restore democracy and end the conflict � The United States should do everything possible including supporting a broadly inclusive political dialogue with or WITHOUT the participation of the palace. Full speech: - http://leahy.senate.gov/press/200512/122105f.html - http://www.blog.com.np/?p=1052#more-1052