Friday, May 13 2005 16:30 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kathmandu: Nepal's political parties today (May 13, 2005) rejected an offer from the Maoists to jointly campaign for restoration of democracy, saying the rebels must first abandon the path of violence before thinking of any possible alliance.

"Our movement for restoration of complete democracy will be peaceful one and there is no possibility of having an alliance with the Maoists unless they denounce violent means," Communist Party of Nepal (UML) spokesman Pradip Nepal said.

Maoist leader Prachanda in a statement yesterday (May 12, 2005) offered to support the seven political parties' agitation against the Royal takeover and help in restoration of democracy.

Pradip Nepal said that the parties believe in the concept of a "ceremonial King but the Maoists want to abolish monarchy. Thus, our slogan and means both are different. So, we can't respond positively to their offer for having an alliance to fight for democracy".

Nepali Congress (Democratic) spokesman Minendra Rijal said that there is no possibility of having an alliance with the Maoists unless they abandon their armed struggle.

"We don't believe the Maoists' philosophy can solve the current problem, nor do we want alliance with those political forces who believe in attaining power through violent means," he added.