United States Congratulates People of Nepal

April 11, 2008    

The United States heartily congratulates the people of Nepal on their successful Constituent Assembly election on April 10.    After nearly a decade since the last general election and more than half a century of demanding the opportunity to elect representatives to draft a constitution, the voters have spoken.  Despite pre-election violence and intimidation and the regrettable death of candidates and party workers, only a small percentage of polling stations will require re-polling.  Overwhelmingly across the country men and women were able to cast their ballots in a peaceful and orderly way.   This represents an historic achievement and is a tribute to the courage of the Nepali people and the conduct of the Election Commission.   Nepal has taken a huge step forward on the path of peace and democracy.  In the days and weeks to come as the votes are counted, we urge patience and respect for the results.   We stand ready to assist the people of Nepal in their pursuit of a more peaceful, democratic and prosperous future.

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