ICJ urges govt, Maoists to prioritise human rights issues

Secretary General of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), Nicholas Howen on Friday urged the seven-party government and the Maoists to give priority to human rights issues in the ongoing government-Maoists peace talks.

Wrapping up the five-day Nepal visit by an ICJ delegation, Howen, in a press conference organised in the capital today said that protection and respect of human rights are essential to hold constituent assembly elections to instate peace and stability in Nepal.

Emphasising on arms management, Howen said that Maoist excesses must be stopped at the earliest.

Howen also urged the government to strongly establish the rule of law in the country.
Earlier this morning, the ICJ delegation also met with Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala at his official residence at Baluwatar.

The ICJ delegation during the meeting with the PM drew his attention towards the violation of the Ceasefire Code of Conduct by the Maoists.

Completing its five-day Nepal visit, the delegation is returning today.