Ever wondered what’s happening to the thousands of fighters that made up the Maoist People’s Liberation Army?
The 19,000 have had to endure not only a struggle which saw many of their friends and family die but also have had to wait till now to find out what is actually going to happen to them. The former rebels had been given three options to regroup to:
1. To integrate with Nepal Army (their former enemies ‘uh oh’)
2. To choose voluntary retirement (future in the villages… or Kathmandu)
3. To accept a rehabilitation package!
Thing’s have been taking place quiet quickly now. Yes it took a long time, various army generals shuffling, PM’s changing but the voluntary retirement (approx 7365) of the maoist combatants has drawn to a close on Friday with the completion of the process in six cantonments. Now onto the next challenge! Our ever changing political parties will now have to focus on the integration of former maoist fighters opting to join the Nepal Army!
What’s your view on this development? Are thing’s looking up for the much delayed ‘peace process’?
PS. Don’t you totally dig the pictured freedom fighter with a Britney Spears t-shirt on? She beat me to it. I want one!
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i don’t think integrating maoist with the Nepalese Army will be a good idea. They will have to face their enemies and in the future I am sure they will have to deal with differences with other Nepali soldiers. Think of it! They have to live, work, sleep or maybe even share meals with the people who they fought with.
Integration is the only way forward. It is time to leave the past and build the future.
I strongly believely that integration will work. British ruled india for many years yet you see many familiar faces here adopting british culture and citizenship. They fought with eachother for a good reason and we all know. Its slowly taking shape now. Roads are getting wider, future plans for railways, education + electricity in villages. Who thought of it? Great job and will look forward to more in future 🙂