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Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli stated that it is too early to comment on whether the recently issued ordinances will be endorsed by the House.

In response to a question from journalists at the Federal Parliament Building today, he said that the time has not yet come to count the quorum for the endorsement of the ordinances issued by the government.

It may be noted the government had issued six ordinances at different times before the commencement of the parliament's ongoing winter session.

According to parliamentary rules, these ordinances shall be presented to the parliament once the session begins.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has committed to completing the development projects in the stipulated timeframe adding that it was government's priority.

Writing on his Facebook wall, the PM mentioned that he was holding discussions with the chief ministers from all seven provinces today to discuss about the progress of the development projects.

PM Oli has also shared that Rs 30 billion has been paid to the construction entrepreneurs adding that the government has advanced from the past situation where the contractors were not paid even after the completion of the development projects.

"We have a priority -- to complete the initiated projects. Many of the stalled infrastructure-related projects have now progressed at a faster pace," the PM asserted.

Addressing the House of Representatives on Thursday, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the leader of the main opposition party, the CPN (Maoist Centre), started his speech by expressing dissatisfaction at the absence of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and senior leaders from the ruling party, the CPN-UML. 

Dahal remarked that, as per parliamentary traditions, when a leader of the opposition addresses the House, it is customary for the leader of the largest party and the Prime Minister, to be present. While Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba arrived a bit late, Prime Minister Oli was notably absent.

During an hour-long speech, Dahal voiced his concern regarding the government’s recent decision to issue multiple ordinances. He questioned the constitutional validity of such ordinances as they were brought forward just six before the Parliament was due to convene. 

The former prime minister accused the government of taking a shortcut in issuing ordinances and claimed that it demonstrated a lack of proper intention and transparency. He raised questions about the necessity of such ordinances, especially considering that the ruling parties had previously boasted of their strong mandate and two-thirds majority. 

Dahal expressed skepticism over the recent ordinances related to land reforms. He questioned whether the new land-related ordinances would ease the process of granting land rights to marginalized communities, including Dalits, indigenous people, and squatters. He warned that the amendments might complicate matters rather than solve them. Dahal also highlighted the discrepancies between the government’s actions and the promises made regarding land rights, emphasizing that the new policies appeared to favor the wealthy and urban elites over the rural poor.

“These amendments seem to benefit the land mafia and real estate developers, while leaving the poor and marginalized people struggling for their basic rights,” he noted.

A significant portion of Dahal’s address was dedicated to the government’s social media regulation bill. He said that while he had long been aware of Prime Minister Oli’s intentions regarding social media regulation, the tacit support of other ruling parties, especially the Congress, to the controversial bill was alarming.

He questioned Congress’s alignment with the government’s move and said, “I know Oli’s intentions, but how can you support such a bill now? Yesterday, you stood against such measures, and today you are supporting them.” He asked the Congress leaders if they really want a country where a citizen is barred from asking questions, from holding government to account.

He accused the government of trying to move forward in an authoritarian manner and intentionally causing distress to the citizens. He added that the government’s political retribution and the misuse of state power had become commonplace

In an attempt to defend himself from allegations related to the controversial ‘Shera Durbar’ incident in Nuwakot, Dahal challenged the government to investigate his possible involvement. “If I am involved in the Shera Darbar case in any way, let the investigation begin,” he said. He further claimed that the government was using the issue to tarnish his reputation, with an aim to find some link, no matter how tenuous, to attack him and his party.

 “The government has been working hard to frame me in this case,” Dahal said.

The case involves the alleged illegal possession of land in Nuwakot, which is thought to have been occupied by Dahal’s former private secretary. Following a prolonged investigation, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal Police has concluded that the land should be returned to the government.

Dahal also accused the government of causing hardship to the citizens. He expressed frustration over the government’s tendency to press serious charges even in situations where a simple resolution could have been found. “In situations where things could be settled through discussions, citizens are being shackled and dragged from one district to another, with severe charges being placed. Is this arrogance of power, or fear of the people?”

He also accused the government of trying to move forward in an authoritarian manner and intentionally causing distress to the citizens. He added that the government’s political retribution and the misuse of state power had become commonplace.

He linked this to the incident involving the Pathibhara Cable Car dispute, where the police had fired shots, and the introduction of the social media regulation bill, which he argued was an attempt to legally control freedom of expression. “What is this? Are you above the people’s sovereignty? Are you above the constitution? Are you the masters and the citizens your slaves?”

Further criticism was directed at the government’s treatment of Rabi Lamichhane, the leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), who was suspended from Parliament despite being released on bail by the court. Dahal raised concerns about the political motives behind Lamichhane’s suspension, accusing the government of orchestrating a political revenge campaign.

He addressed the Speaker of the House, requesting a re-evaluation of Lamichhane’s suspension, calling into question its fairness and constitutional grounds. “Even after being released on bail, how can Lamichhane’s suspension be justified? We need to reconsider this issue in light of the constitutional principles of justice,” he urged the Speaker.

Dahal emphasized that the current government’s strength was evident when it came to pursuing political revenge. He argued that the opposition leaders were being unfairly painted as villains despite the lack of evidence.

Lawmaker Sobita Gautam from RSP also expressed regret over the decision to suspend Lamichhane and urged for a swift correction of the decision. “My party and I deeply regret this decision, and I request the Parliament Secretariat to correct it as soon as possible,” Gautam said. “I humbly request that the suspension be revoked.”

“Parliamentary rules have provisions for suspension only if an MP is sent to jail by a court. But the suspension notice was posted without a court case,” she said. “The law was meant to prevent MPs from being targeted unnecessarily.”

Similarly, Sumana Shrestha, MP from RSP raised concerns about the social media bill, which has been registered in Parliament, and highlighted the growing protests from youth against the bill. She brought the issue to the government’s attention. “Protests have started on social media since yesterday. There is a growing voice against the social media bill the government has registered,” she said. “Will the government listen to this voice? I am raising this issue to attract the government’s attention.”

She also suggested engaging the youth for further discussions on the bill. “Invite the youth and let them discuss. We’ve seen that the bill can pass through this House even if they are pushed. What is content creation? The government has brought this bill without even understanding basic social media matters,” Shrestha said.

KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has called for combined efforts from all for the success of the free human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign that commenced from today.

Inaugurating a nationwide campaign organised by the Ministry of Health and Population at Shivapuri Secondary School in Maharajgunj today on the occasion of World Cancer Day, he said the joint efforts of all concerned were essential to make the Healthy Nepal campaign a success.

PM Oli on the occasion stated that happiness and prosperity of mankind is the goal of the government, and the present government was active to free Nepali citizens from diseases and deprivation.

He also said that the government was aware that no one should fall sick and arrangements should be made for easy and quality treatment in case of illness.

The Prime Minister advised all to eat healthy and nutritious food only as the health of the citizens is at the centre of the Healthy Nepal Campaign.

He said cervical cancer could be eradicated as the Covid-19 pandemic has also been overcome with the joint efforts of all.

The Prime Minister wished that no girl in the designated group is deprived of the right to receive a free HPV vaccine against cervical cancer.

According to the Department of Health Services, girls from grade six to ten and also the out-of-school girls aged 10-14 will be administered the HPV vaccines.

It is said, under the vaccination drive, 1,688,900 girls will be administered the vaccine that protects against cervical cancer.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has claimed progress in ongoing development endeavors.

In his address to the fifth session of the House of Representatives that convened today, the Prime Minister said the successful completion of projects launched to achieve prosperity in the nation is among the goals of the government.

"The government is making steady progress in executing projects that contribute to a prosperous Nepal," he stated.

Citing the recent breakthrough on the Siddhababa tunnel as a significant achievement, he said that the project will help minimize travel difficulties for passengers while enhancing infrastructure sustainability.

He also referenced progress on the Dhedre tunnel in Makwanpur, part of the Kathmandu-Terai Madhesh Expressway, and the Jogbani-Kimathanka project, a project of national pride.

Similarly, construction on the Butwal-Narayangadh road section is advancing, and efforts are underway to develop the Kirtipur Cricket Ground into a stadium equipped with floodlights, according to the Prime Minister, who further said the completion of an advanced stadium in Surkhet and the resumption of several previously stalled projects are among the achievements of the incumbent government.

Regarding political stability, he said that Parliament is now free from the recurrent compulsion of the Prime Minister seeking a vote of confidence.

"In the past six months, our experience is that we are free from the repeated need to test our vote of confidence," he said.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has extended best wishes on the occasion of Sonam Lhosar, the New Year of Tamang community, today.

Taking to social site, Facebook, PM Oli extended best wishes to all people celebrating the Sonam Lhosar.

He wrote, "Today is the New Year or Sonam Lhosar of Tamang community. I remember multi-coloured flags on the roofs of houses and monasteries."

The cultural performance with selo and damphu bear much significance during this festival, he said, extending best wishes to jhamman (all) nanaanga (sisters) and jyojyoale (brothers) on this occasion.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, emphasizing reforms in all social sectors including politics, asserted that the country cannot be run on 'stunts'.

PM Oli said so while inaugurating the first Young Lawyers Summit organized by the Nepal Bar Association and Young Lawyers Interest Committee here today marking the Martyrs' Day.

Oli, on the occasion, called for individuals to discharge their duties with integrity and loyalty towards people to elevate the country from chaos and poverty.

Noting the important role of political leadership and people's involvement to establish democracy in the country, he urged commitment from one and all to maintain peace and order, good-governance and prosperity.

He stressed on the need for lawmakers to frame legislations realizing that they are doing so representing the sovereign citizens while, he added, that the government should not consider itself as an 'absolute authority'.

"The Parliament should formulate judicious legislation and the relevant agencies should function accordingly. Besides exercising the principle of check and balance, the practice of upholding laws is of paramount importance in democracy," the Head of the Government argued.

Reiterating the incumbent government's commitment to build a well-governed, corruption-free and prosperous country with happy citizens, he called for active cooperation from lawyers for this vision.

Pledging to implement the conclusions and recommendations drawn by the conference, Oli reassured the incumbent government's support towards lawyers and youths. He also vowed to pay attention to formulation of laws and ensuring welfare and advancement of this sector.

He opined that the situation of young lawyers getting scant wages should be ended.

The inaugural of the conference featured addresses delivered by various international representatives and launch of the 'Young Lawyers Survey Report'.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has expressed gratitude for the full support he has received from coalition partner Nepali Congress (NC). Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the administrative building of Suryabinayak municipality in Bhaktapur on Monday, Oli assured that he would extend similar cooperation when NC takes over leadership.

“In 17-18 months, Sher Bahadur Deuba will become the Prime Minister. He will lead, and I will support him. The UML will give full support and ensure success,” said Oli. “At present, I am receiving complete and unconditional support from the NC, and they will get the same from us in the future.”

Oli emphasized the importance of collaboration among major political parties to ensure national development. He warned of a lack of alternatives if the coalition fails to deliver progress.

“If the major parties working together cannot lead the country toward development, then there’s no room for ‘yours’ or ‘mine’. We are committed to developing all 753 municipalities. No one can stop this progress,” he stated.

Oli also responded to recent remarks from Pushpa Kamal Dahal, chairperson of the CPN (Maoist Center), who had claimed during a public address in Dang that a victory similar to the 2008 elections would uproot corruption in the country.

Without directly naming Dahal, Oli criticized past electoral practices, stating, “That era is gone. Back then, there were camps, fear and intimidation. People were told their votes could be tracked through binoculars and adjusted later. Even the government and administration were rendered powerless due to such threats.”

Oli accused the Maoists of controlling polling stations during the 2008 elections, influencing voters and undermining administrative authority. “They would stand near the ballot box and say, ‘I will mark it for you’. But that time has passed,” he added.

The Prime Minister, who had been resting due to health issues, also addressed concerns regarding his health. He criticized the portrayal of his illness, saying, “Even when I have a common cold, they show pictures of me in ICU with an oxygen mask.”

Oli assured the public that while he remains weak due to antibiotics, his health is improving. “Yes, I’ve been sick. I’m still recovering, but those expecting me to end up in ICU will be disappointed,” he remarked. This statement follows his virtual participation in recent events, including the Siddhababa Tunnel breakthrough ceremony, due to his doctors advising against long-distance travel.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said Nepal has already made advancements in terms of development works and infrastructure.

In his virtual address to the foundation stone laying ceremony of Butwal-Gorusinge road section up-gradation and today, PM Oli said the government would speed up the construction of tunnel, administrative and hospital buildings and other development works.

He also announced that the Butwal-Gorusinge road section would be expanded within the next three years.

The successful breaking of the Siddhababa tunnel way today was a great achievement, he said, stressing that the country's development should be undertaken on our own with high determination and courage.

He, however, clarified that cooperation from foreign aid agencies can also be received for such works.

Prime Minister Oli urged all to move ahead towards building the nation in unison, ignoring the forces attempting to spread division and confusion in the name of religion, caste and several other names.

Deputy Prime Ministers Prakash Man Singh and Bishnu Prasad Poudel among others had addressed the programme. 

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Speaker Dev Raj Ghimire held a meeting at the former's official residence in Baluwatar on Monday.

According to a Baluwatar source, they held a discussion on convening the Parliament session on January 31.

Opposition parties have been mounting pressure on the government for not calling the winter session of the Parliament.

It has been said that they also held a discussion on the Parliament business.

The opposition parties have already warned the government that they would start the process to call a special session if the Parliament session is called at the earliest.

Organizing a press conference on Friday, the opposition parties had urged the government to convene the Parliament session as soon as possible.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said the government is making efforts to promote the health and education sectors.

In his address to the first convocation of the Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences as the Academy Chancellor, the Prime Minister claimed a progress and transformation in each sectors.

Assimilating the approach of 'prosperous Nepal, happy Nepali', the modernized version, as he said, of the motto of 'Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah' (May all be happy), promoted by our sages, the government is working to achieve the goal, he added.

Describing Kaski as the place of commencement of the Vedic science, he said this is a glorious history for us.

The PM also took time to say that Nepal will explore the venture for development with the utilization of artificial intelligence.

He said, "China could elevate such an enormous size of population from the poverty line in a short time. We should also gear up for building the nation. If we work, Nepal will be built." PM and Academy Chancellor Oli wished the graduates to prove themselves as an exemplary and integrated personality for the society.

On the occasion, thirty-eight graduates under the MD and MS courses in the year 2080 BS took part in the convocation.

The Prime Minister honoured Arbind Kumar Shah (Orthopedics) and Ashish Sapkota (General Surgery) with the Vice Chancellor Award for their outstanding performances.

University Pro-Chancellor and Minister for Health and Population, Pradip Paudel, were present on the occasion.

Prof Magnus Westgren from Karolinska University of Stockholm, Sweden gave his speech. Academy Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Duk Bahadur Chhetri said that in course of expanding the services, the Academy has prepared for operating a 50-bed emergency ward.

Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) Nepal, Kamal Thapa, today paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

During the meeting, the two exchanged views on contemporary political scenario, according to RPP Nepal's General Secretary Rajaram Bartaula.

Leader Thapa also extended an invitation to the Prime Minister to a reception to be organized by the party tomorrow, January 11, on the occasion of 'National Unification Day'. 

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli commended the activism of women people's representatives in enhancing the legitimacy of local government and ensuring effective public service delivery.

Addressing the 'She Leads Icon' programme organized by an organization, Kalpa, to honour women people's representatives on Friday, PM Oli further praised the representatives' leadership in upholding the dignity.

He asserted, "While the literacy rate among women was dismal in the past, we see them in the leadership position in the present. It is a huge achievement of political changes."

Stating that 40 per cent of the people's representatives in the local level are women, the Head of the Government observed, "It is a progressive representation, which needs further increase."

On the occasion, PM Oli honoured 27 women representatives for their excellence in delivery of public services.

Likewise, three women representatives were conferred on the 'Icon Award'. 

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has expressed grief over the demise of a child singer Sachin Pariyar.

PM Oli took to social media and shared his sorrow over Pariyar's death. "I'm aggrieved over the death of child singer Sachin Pariyar.

This incident reflects adverse impact of family discord and viral trend of social networks on a talent child, giving a message that we need to be cautious while responding to sensitive issues of social relations.

Heartfelt tribute to child singer, Sachin!" Pariyar aged 13 died at TU Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu on Thursday morning at 10:45am. ----

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has extended best wishes to all on the occasion of the New Year 2025 today.

Taking to social media, he posted an image of the rising sun and said, "May a beautiful dawn arise in everyone's life! Happy New Year 2025!". 

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that making a 'beautiful, peaceful and prosperous' Nepal was the common motto of all Nepalis.

At a program organized by the CPN-UML to welcome different personalities in the UML today, PM Oli, also the Chairperson of the party, argued that although the interests of people vary based on their professions, their common goal is to build a prosperous Nepal.

Appreciating the choice of the new cadres entering the UML party, he said, "You have made the right choice. You should be a model for others." He viewed that all those entering the party had become a family having a common goal.

He opined that the party cadres and leaders alike should establish the fact that Nepal is a country of the talents.

The septuagenarian leader further motivated the new entrants, "Old records are to be broken, New records are to be set. We should protect ourselves from various treacherous activities that could instigate youths." He also urged the newcomers to lead a realistic and truthful lifestyle and focus on delivering the best results.

Party Chairperson Oli welcomed outgoing National President of Nepal Jaycees Rabin Pokharel and other youths including Bibha Basnet, Shivani Gautam, Gayatri BC among others.

Pokharel and Basnet admitted that they wanted to contribute to visionary party Chairperson Oli's nation-building resolution and thus joined the party.

The program was attended by UML Deputy General-Secretary Bishnu Prasad Rimal, organization department's Chief Kashinath Adhikari and leader Bhanu Bhakta Acharya among others.