This chapter traces the transformation of the Maoist party since the end of the People's War. The Maoists saw the peace process as a bargain through which they would enter peaceful multiparty competition; abandon crucial sources of power, in particular the People's Liberation Army and parallel government structures; and renounce all use of force in return for the abolition of the monarchy and the socioeconomic transformation of the Nepali state and society.

Yet, as the peace process progressed, the Maoist party found other means of expanding its power base. From its inception, the Maoists shored up their popular support through their far-reaching transformation agenda, which contrasted sharply with the other parties’ general lack of programmatic vision. The Maoists also exploited a weak state to expand their reach into society through illiberal methods.