Peace Zone...

Slightly contrived, but I specifically cycled out to photograph this sign, which is on the road to Panauti.

UNMIN (United Nation Mission In Nepal) leaves Nepal on 15 January, with any number of unresolved issues. The key one is the integration of the Maoist forces into the Nepal Army. The Peace Process still holds,and I've got used to reading statements in the press from all parties which appear little more than posturing.

Karen Landgren's summing up of UNMINs time in Nepal can be found here , but this extract probably will suffice. Its a bit long, but provides a context..

The historic 12-point agreement which the warring parties signed in 2005 committed them to establishing absolute democracy in Nepal, but completing the course and managing the process have now become acutely challenging. Deep divisions have emerged over its direction and the sequencing of steps, especially in respect of the future of Maoist army personnel and the promulgation of the new constitution. While Nepal's dramatic political gains are not likely to be reversed, the risks have clearly grown. There have at times been fears among many Nepalis over the prospect of a 'peoples' revolt? which remains an explicit Maoist threat; of the President stepping in, as recently called for by the Vice-President should the parties fail to find a way forward; or of an army-backed coup. Any such measures would sorely threaten peace and Nepal's fragile democracy.

Adopting the new constitution should close the door firmly on any undemocratic governance alternatives, of which the UN has also repeatedly warned. Parties on both the left and the right will need to show patience and remain faithful to the core documents of the peace process. The traditional parties need to demonstrate that their intention was not simply to marginalise the Maoists through day-to-day politics, while the Maoists must demonstrate unambiguously that they intend to abide by democratic politics.

This peace process can be brought to a close in two ways: satisfactorily, through the negotiated resolution of outstanding issues, or abortively, with one or more parties reneging on their solemn commitments. Setbacks and challenges are inevitable but it is in the interest of the country, the region and the international community as a whole that the peace process be maintained, respected, and steered to a proper close. UNMIN has continued to encourage dignified negotiated solutions, which require a moderation of positions on all sides. The parties can build on the dialogue that has been their longstanding strength; shun the demonising of one another, and sidestep the broad array of spoilers. At this moment, we encourage them to come to rapid agreement on the future of the monitoring of arms and armies.

Lets hope that the country remains a Peace Zone