BY SAGUN S LAWOTI

Nepal as an independent nation should stand united and uphold its nationalism and integrity. It should never go through the process of disintegration, said King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev.

"Nepal should maintain its long held independence.

It will be unfortunate if the nation disintegrates, more so in communal lines," King Gyanendra told nepalvibe.com.

"We will be going backwards if we are looking at baise chaubise rajya," he said.

"Ethnic or communal violence will cost dearly for Nepal, the nation won't be able to bear that."

The monarch stated that the Nepali people's aspirations, especially those in rural hinterlands, have been for stability, peace and security, and the freedom to live and work in peace.

He emphasized that the state should accommodate aspirations and concerns of the people of all hue and shade across the mountains, hills and the plains.

It is imperative that the voices of the people, especially from the far-flung remote areas are heard, the King said.

Though the people have not been able to articulate their viewpoints due to various reasons, it is them who have to speak up.

"It is the people who should act," he said.

The monarch suggested that short-term initiative with no exit plan does not deliver in Nepal's case.

"The future definitely lies with democracy. But what kind of democracy are we looking for," the King said adding, "It is here we all have to understand that democracy has to be home-grown."

Decentralization is a vital constituent of democracy. Besides, it is imperative that the "norms and values" are in place for democracy to be meaningful.

As far as the election to the constituent assembly goes, the King said, "The people have to have the opportunity to cast their vote free of threats and intimidation. If not what kind of election are we looking for?"

Apparently the monarch has his hopes pinned on the youths of the country.

"It is the youth who have to make the difference. The hope lies with them," the monarch asserted.

Besides, change has to evolve, he said. "It has to come through evolution not revolution."

 [Based on an informal conversation]

 (Nepalvibe.com; Kathmandu, 12 February)