UCPN (Maoist) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said he does not hold any aspiration to become country’s next prime minister.

Addressing a press meet in Chitwan on Sunday, Dahal claimed he has always placed national interest before self and that he holds more desire to fulfil the responsibilities towards the state and its citizens rather than aspiring for key state positions. He also urged reporters not to ask him about the next government leadership.

The former prime minister brushed off suggestions that he was holding an ambition to become the next prime minister. “Earlier, I was accused of lobbying for presidency. But those rumours have been put to rest after I led the initiative in selecting someone else to the post,” Dahal said, while stressing on the need of national unity for the sake of constitution implementation, reconstruction campaign, safeguard national sovereignty. “I am more concerned about these things than anything else.” Dahal is hopeful of a deal with Madhes-based parties after the conclusion of Nepali Congress general convention. “Formal talks will resume once the general convention ends. Madhesi leaders won’t have to protest anymore,” he said.