The end of the beginning? (and Happy New Year)

If newsflow to the UK has slowed down it is not because of lack of action here just that if its the same thing day after day, it doesn't count as news. The official day time curfew was lifted in Kathamandu yesterday which makes life a lot easier. However VSO asked us to stay in yesterday because they expected big demonstrations. No restriction today and I am now at the VSO office.

It now seems that all sections of civil society (sorry, development jargon) have come out in favour of "peace and democracy" (well who wouldn't) which is the euphemism for "Come in King Gyanendra, your time is up". Even the VSO office staff went on a demo yesterday and the US (who until now have been major backers of the King) issued a statement that the King's rule had been a total failure in all regards. Tomorrow is Nepali New Year's Day and traditionally the King addresses the nation. There is a feeling of optimism here that he will announce that he will reliquish autocratic power in favour of parliamentary democracy. Let's hope he does otherwise the demonstrations will get out of hand. I am taking my normal gloomy view of life and pointing out that the King handing over would only be the end of the beginning - who does he hand over to, can an effective government be formed by a grouping of political parties (including the Maoists who may or may not renounce violence) that historically have fought each other for power. Clearly not a totally valid comparison but look at Iraq. The limited experience Nepal has of parliamentary democracy was not good, corrupt and incompetent have been the only descriptions I've heard used. Still, enough of my depressing views, it does feel exciting to feel that we are witnessing history being made - a bit like the Berlin Wall coming down. Certainly politics here is more interesting than speculating when Tony Blair might step down.

To finish on a lighter note, I was sorry to hear that Kylidh, the yacht I used to race on has been sold. Thanks Guy for a couple (4?) of years of great fun sailing her and best wishes to all the crew - is it too early to start planning a reunion drink when Dickie and I get back?

The Kylidh drinking team at Cowes Week 2005 (apologies to Guy, Tilly & Phil - I think you'd gone home)

Check the Beeb for news tomorrow.

Happy Nepali New Year and Easter. Hope the weather's good for the UK holiday weekend.

Cheers

Roshan