Girija Prasad Koirala of the Nepali Congress party and Madhav Kumar Nepal of the Communist Party of Nepal (United Marxist-Leninist) are the two pre-eminent leaders challenging the royal takeover of 1 February 2005. Himal Southasian spoke to Koirala, 80, as he was recuperating from an extended illness. Mr Nepal, meanwhile, has been in house arrest under orders from King Gyanendra since 20 January 2006.
What is the fate of the 12-point understanding of the parties with the Maoists?
Our stand remains firm on the understanding. We will not deviate despite pressure from some quarters because it holds out the hope for peace and democracy.
What about the Democracy Day invitation by the palace for 'interested' parties to come for dialogue?