Nepal: EU anxious over impunity, demands query of conflict-era HR abuse

Telegraph Nepal

Kathmandu-based EU missions together with Norway and Switzerland issuing a joint statement have welcomed the discharge of those former Maoist combatants opting for voluntary retirement.

“After too many years in the cantonments, they can now return to contribute to their communities”, reads the statement and adds, “We note the allegations of financial irregularities and emphasise that the payments the former combatants receive must remain to be theirs alone to invest in their upcoming future”.

The statement reads further:

All the political parties have shown courage in advancing the peace process in recent months. As a result the planned closure of some satellite cantonments would be a visible step forward in Nepal’s transition from conflict. Recalling the 1 November agreement, the parties should now move ahead swiftly to resolve the future of those who remain in the cantonments. This calls for continued dialogue, flexibility and compromise from all political parties.

We also call on the parties to press ahead with fulfilling the mandate given to them in April 2008 by completing the drafting of a democratic, inclusive new constitution with adequate checks and balances. The form of federalism is for the Constituent Assembly to decide, based on the aspirations of all Nepal’s citizens. But there are international standards of democracy and human rights that Nepal should maintain.

We continue to be concerned about impunity, with inadequate investigation and prosecution of conflict-era human rights violations. Ongoing moves that seek to circumvent the judicial system, as well as proposed legislation that would contravene international law, ignore the needs of victims. We strongly believe that transitional justice institutions which are genuinely independent, seek both truth and reconciliation, and which give victims the fullest opportunity for redress, are essential to consolidate the peace process.

The EU, Norway and Switzerland reaffirm their continued commitment and full support to the peace process and stand ready to assist Nepal in the weeks and months ahead.”

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