Underlying threats to the newfound peace lie in the very process that created it: "a lack of solid dialogue mechanisms, poor facilitation, little attention to confidence-building and an opaque, elite-driven approach," says the latest report by the International Crisis Group (ICG).

To diminish the risks, ICG advises the SPA and Maoists to: make the next stages of talks more inclusive; thrash out remaining differences and implement the Comprehensive Peace Agreement immediately; devise ways to return local governance and rule of law; and start building confidence on military matters so that the mammoth task of restructuring both the armies goes smoothly.

Ironically, considering this week's government appointments and subsequent Maoist protests, the report quotes an insider who says "the communication gap (between the two sides) isn't an issue any more."

The biggest test will be meeting the June timetable for constituent assembly polls, the ICG's Rhoderick Chalmers told us. "If they do happen it's almost certain they won't be free and fair (but) the real danger is if they don't go ahead-it's momentum that's keeping the process going."

Marty Logan