KATHMANDU: The ruling Maoist Center’s decision to elect a President on the basis of national consensus has been taken as a clear signal to the ruling partner CPN-UML not to be rigid on its presidential candidate.

Prime Minister and party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda brought a proposal to seek consensus on the President at the party’s Standing Committee meeting Friday.

Prachanda said that he has reached a “gentleman’s agreement” with the UML on the President.

“We have entrusted party Chairman Dahal to take the initiative to bring all parties together on a consensus candidate for the President,” a leader said.

According to the leader, it is a clear indication that Prachanda decision suggests it would be appropriate to pick the President on the basis of national consensus.

The decision of the Maoist Center has created doubts within the power equation, observers said, which seems unfavorable, especially for the major coalition partner, CPN- UML.