Kathmandu, May 15:

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon Tuesday expressed his concerns about the rising tensions and disruption of daily life in Nepal linked to the debate over its future federal system and urged the political parties to reach a consensus among the disputed issues of the constitution and promulgate the new constitution within stipulated deadline.

"With time fast running out before the 27 May deadline for the Constituent Assembly to complete its work, it is imperative for the political parties of Nepal to rise above their differences and reach a consensus," Mr. Ban’s spokesperson said. "Having taken important historical steps since 2005, they cannot afford to disappoint the Nepali people." He also urged the leaders of political parties to make efforts to assuage the concerns of communities who fear they would be disadvantaged under a federal system.

The Secretary-General urged all, particularly those carrying out public protests, to do so peacefully, with full respect for the rights of others and without disrupting humanitarian access across the country.

"He calls on the Government to meaningfully address the escalating tensions and respond to the situation in accordance with national and international law," the spokesperson added.