Simple Convictions: My Struggle for Peace and Democracy
Author: Girija Prasad Koirala, Kanak Mani Dixit
Category: Politics   
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“Girija Prasad Koirala

The introduction to Simple Convictions is written by Kanak Mani Dixit, an editor and reporter who was active in the fight against ‘royal regression’ and maintained a public position against Maoists violence. He says, “In the period covered by the pronouncements of Girija Prasad Koirala contained in this volume, he evolved as a national figure, beyond being leader of the Nepali Congress party. Between October 2002 and December 2006, Koirala became indispensable to the people in the fight for peace and democracy. Through his dogged insistence on the restoration of the Third Parliament he helped quash Gyanendra's dictatorial designs, and simultaneously legitimised the evolution of the CPN (Maoist) towards the political mainstream. These are reasons to appreciate Girija Prasad Koirala at the beginning of 2007. As for the rest of his legacy, let history be the judge.”
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The arms of the Maoists, the over-ambition of the king, and the strategic politics of weapons - snatching power with the help of an army - were lethal to democracy, country and the people. At whatever cost, it was vital to separate the country, people and democracy from the politics of guns. So I resolved that the Maoist problem could only be addressed through dialogue. We would need to hold dialogue with them and bring them peacefully into the political mainstream. I was convinced of the need to defend democracy from the guns of both the Maoists and the king... I wish that there should be no need for future generations to fight for democracy like I have had to. This is the decisive struggle of my life. The people are eager to see peace and democracy established in the country. I will be happy when this becomes a reality.”