To me, the very best thing out of this election was that the Nepali people displayed utmost understanding of, and sheer intellect in, expressing their highly-aware aspirations throught the ballots. Besides the few anomalies here and there, the GENERAL PATTERN was crystal-clear. -- they wanted CHANGE. Even among the NC and the UML, the newer faces seems to be winning, and (otherwise) the Maoists got their faith. The people truly desired a New Nepal, and they are well on their wayto get it, I think.

Now, this very capacity of the Nepali people to do mathematical and precise analysis of where the country should be headed -- for good or for bad -- their sheer level of great awareness -- will check the Maoist excesses should they form the new government. I am sure the Maoist leadership also understands this reality very well. No one can under-estimate the will of the people in this day and age. Therefore, I believe, some of the extreme fears of GP-ji have reasons aplenty for doubts.

Pol Pot era is done with, and can never revive. International community, particularly India, the EU, and the US will never allow extreme communism flourish in Nepal. Maoists themselves have come a long way (despite the fears and doubts of many) from the jungles, making serious and positive compromises along the way. DEMOCRATIC Republic has been, and, I believe, will always be, their unquestionable motto. Should they astray from the path of democratization, and some extremests within the Maoists may try to do so, the proper checks (that of the Nepali people and the international community) is firmly in place, I think. This is not to say everything will be fine and dandy in the months and years to come, but I believe, despite some upheavels, the Nepali nation will move forward towards the ultimate positive goal.

That said, I suspect some forms of socialism (tolerable to the people) may be introduced, particularly in the areas of education and health, and service to the poor. But communism like that of Mao? Tyranny like that of Pol Pot? I really don't think so.

For now, I cannot help but gleefully cherish the making of the NEW in Nepal.