As one strategist for the Nepali Congress, the largest of the democratic parties, admitted, the Maoists' interests lie in further polarising Nepali politics, whereas the stated aim of the parties is to build a democratic consensus on the middle ground.
Although there is general agreement over integration and rehabilitation, the opposition Nepali Congress Party is also insisting that the Maoists hand over their weapons as part of the deal to extend the constitutional deadline.
Indeed, many Nepali politicians say the agreement should be renegotiated, arguing that the Maoists have not kept their side of the bargain, for example by failing to control their thuggish youth wing.