K P Oli of CPN-UML

One striking element of the recent change of guard in Nepal, after the promulgation of the new Constitution, is that once arch enemies – the ‘Royalist’ (RPP-N) and Maoists (UCPN-M), joined forces to elect K P Oli of CPN-UML as Prime Minister trouncing Sushil Koirala of Nepali Congress .  The latter is generally perceived to be “India Friendly” and sympathetic towards the Madhesi cause. It is ironical – to say the least – that RPP-N went to the elections with pro-Hindu and pro-monarchy slogans, the very principles that Maoists had fought against. Power they say is the ultimate glue – but here the prime motivation seems to have been keeping Indian influence at bay.