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Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli began his four-day official visit to Beijing on Monday at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, Premier Li Qiang. This marks Oli’s first bilateral foreign trip since assuming office for the third time in July, signaling a significant step in Nepal-China relations.

During the visit, Oli is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and hold bilateral talks with Premier Li. Discussions will focus on mutual interests, including connectivity, infrastructure development, trade and transit, energy cooperation, tourism, and fostering people-to-people ties, according to Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The two countries are also expected to sign some key agreements. Notably, China will provide a $20mn grant to Nepal, alongside a new bilateral development cooperation framework to be implemented from 2025 to 2029. Projects such as the Tokha-Khahare Tunnel Road, the Special Economic Zone at the Korala border, and the feasibility study for a cross-border railway line are likely to advance, Information and Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung said. Oli has chosen China over India as his initial foreign destination, breaking the longstanding practice of Nepali prime ministers beginning their tenure with a visit to India. 

Oli’s choice to visit China first rather than India is “not unexpected, but rather a reflection of the increasing policy choices of South Asian countries,” Lin Minwang, a deputy director of the Center for South Asian Studies at Fudan University, told the Global Times on Sunday. He further noted after coming to power, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu also chose to visit China first instead of India, and other South Asian countries are actively developing relations with China. “This reflects changes in Nepal's domestic politics and its policy toward China.”

Besides choosing China for his first official trip, Oli’s visit is drawing attention for other reasons as well. One of them is China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). 

A task force from the two parties has revised the draft of the BRI implementation plan initially proposed by the Chinese side in 2020. The document, now titled Framework for Cooperation instead of BRI Implementation Plan, has been sent to the Chinese side for initial negotiations, though it is yet to be finalized.

This trip comes at a time when China is pushing to strengthen BRI cooperation. There are concerns over what sort of agreement will be signed with Beijing on BRI on which India and western countries are cautioning Nepal to maintain transparency and avoid possible debt burden. Domestically, there are also suspicions that the coalition of Nepali Congress and CPN-UML could crack, as two parties have divergent views on how to deal with China. Oli has a history of fostering strategic agreements with China, including the landmark Transit and Transport Treaty of 2016. 

China’s Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Mao Ning, highlighted the importance of Oli’s visit in strengthening bilateral ties. “Despite changing international and regional dynamics, China-Nepal relations have grown steadily over the past 69 years, exemplifying equality and win-win cooperation between countries of different sizes,” she said. Mao emphasized deepening strategic trust, advancing high-quality BRI cooperation, and achieving progress in the China-Nepal partnership.

As Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli prepares for his official visit to China, political and diplomatic circles are actively debating the state of Nepal’s relationship with India. Observers suggest this move reflects Oli’s strained relationship with New Delhi and points to a shift in India’s approach toward Nepal. Many Indian politicians, bureaucrats, think tanks, and media figures often attribute fluctuations in bilateral relations to the Nepali side.

Critics in New Delhi argue that Nepali leaders often make commitments in India but fail to uphold them once back in Kathmandu. Similarly, Indian authorities frequently accuse Nepali politicians of politicizing critical bilateral issues for party or personal gain. Nepal’s internal political instability and lack of consensus on key foreign policy matters are also seen as contributing factors to the inconsistent relationship. A foreign policy expert from New Delhi remarked that India seeks a reliable partner in Kathmandu but finds it challenging to trust Nepali leaders, who are perceived as unpredictable.

While these criticisms may hold some truth, there’s also a need for reflection on India’s approach toward Nepal.

One current debate centers on Prime Minister Oli’s planned visit to China, a departure from the tradition of a new Nepali prime minister making their first official trip to India. However, this tradition has been broken before; in 2011, for instance, India did not invite then-Prime Minister Jhala Nath Khanal, and in 2008, Pushpa Kamal Dahal visited Beijing before later affirming India as his first political visit destination. India’s decision not to invite Oli this time has stirred speculation in political circles that New Delhi is dissatisfied with Nepal’s recent policy moves. At a time when economic cooperation has been progressing, India's hesitation to invite Oli risks undermining bilateral relations, potentially stirring suspicion and impacting other areas of the partnership.

Soon after the formation of the new government, there were talks about a visit from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Nepal, though this has yet to materialize. There are differing views within India’s bureaucracy and ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), leading to mixed signals that complicate Nepal’s understanding of India’s priorities. Unlike in the past, senior BJP leaders have recently engaged with Nepal’s political parties and bureaucracy, but a lack of alignment between India’s political and bureaucratic circles seems to be creating further challenges. India’s handling of issues around trade and assistance has also contributed to tension, with frequent reports of delays in the movement of goods between the two countries, fueling a trust deficit that affects the broader relationship.

There are other factors that call for reflection in both Kathmandu and New Delhi. Among Indian policymakers, there is often a perception that Nepal is solely responsible for any disturbances in bilateral relations. The case of the Eminent Persons’ Group (EPG) report illustrates this imbalance; India’s reluctance to receive the report has affected  bilateral relations, and the situation will likely remain unresolved unless addressed. Other areas, such as the difficulties faced by Nepali citizens in India and along the border, also deserve more attention from Indian policymakers.

Since 2017–18, New Delhi has maintained a policy of engaging with whichever party leads the Nepali government, a position that should continue. While India may have reservations about Nepal’s growing ties with Washington and Beijing, both sides should openly discuss India’s legitimate security concerns. But for now, a significant trust deficit persists between Nepal and India, which could potentially worsen after Oli’s China visit. Both New Delhi and Kathmandu need to actively work on bridging this gap. Although there was hope for renewed bilateral cooperation after 2014, missteps from both sides since 2016 have strained relations. Only through earnest reflection and engagement can meaningful progress be made.

Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Karnali Academy of Health Science, KP Sharma Oli, is set to leave for Jumla today to attend the first convocation ceremony of the Academy.

The Prime Minister will be accompanied by Minister for Health and Population Pradeep Poudel, Vice-Chairperson of Medical Education Commission Prof Dr Anjani Kumar Jha, Director of the US-based Hardware Medical College Center for Primary Care and System Strengthening Christine Massinger in the convocation ceremony, PM Oli’s private secretariat informed.

KP Sharma Oli, Prime Minister 

It is my distinct honor to attend and address this august gathering of high officials for a ‘Lead Free Future.’ I wish to thank the United States Agency for International Development for organizing this important event and for the opportunity to share our views. 

It is a distressing fact that lead poisoning harms every other child in low- and middle-income countries, damaging their cognitive development, physical health and future potential. If calculated in economic terms, some reports state that lead exposure causes global productivity losses at an estimated $1.4trn annually. Although controlling lead poisoning is entirely preventable and not so costly, we have not done enough.  

Let me put some of my thoughts on this issue:

First, governments should take the leadership and put in place effective domestic policy measures such as limiting and, where necessary, banning the use of lead in different sectors. 

Second, the United Nations and its agencies should put this issue on high priority. 

UN agencies should help national institutions, particularly in the LDCs and the LICs, through capacity building, education, awareness raising, training, and research and development. 

WHO can provide support to install necessary testing facilities in hospitals and labs.

Third, resource mobilization is a key to the success of this effort. For this, World Bank and other IFIs, international and bilateral donors like USAID scale up their support in needy countries.  

Fourth, a mass awareness program should be launched with specific target groups like children and pregnant women, reaching out the furthest behind. 

Excellencies, Nepal is one of the first countries in the Global South to ban leaded gasoline and the first in the region to regulate lead in paint through binding rules. 

In 2014, the Government of Nepal enacted the National Lead Paint Standard to eliminate leaded paint from Nepal.

In 2023, we introduced strict regulations limiting heavy metals, including lead, in infant food, alcoholic beverages, and essential food and water supplies. 

In 2024, we have taken another significant step forward with the enactment of our Food Safety Bill, further strengthening the regulatory framework to protect public health.

We will conduct a national blood lead level assessment in 2025, to collect critical data to further refine our health and environmental policies. 

We are determined to join the global effort to ensure that no child’s potential is diminished by lead exposure. 

As we need concerted global efforts to control lead exposure in our children worldwide, we move forward with the Partnership for a Lead-Free Future.

Let me express Nepal’s firm commitment to work with all partners for a lead-free future in Nepal and beyond. 

Excerpts from Prime Minister  KP Sharma Oli’s speech delivered at the Partnership Launch and Pledging Event on ‘A Lead-Free Future’. The event was organized by USAID

Two weeks have elapsed since Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli assumed office, backed decisively by the largest party in the House of Representatives, the Nepali Congress (NC). While it is customary to reserve judgment on a new government’s performance for at least 100 days, vigilant oversight remains essential from the outset.

During this period, Prime Minister Oli has focused on assembling his team, securing a vote of confidence from the Parliament, and receiving briefings from various government agencies. He has appointed key aides, including former Finance Minister Yubaraj Khatiwada as his economic advisor, though appointment of press and foreign affairs advisors remain pending. A close examination of Oli’s first fortnight in office reveals a promising trajectory.

Breaking from tradition, Prime Minister Oli has opted not to prepare a Common Minimum Program (CMP) or announce populist agendas to capture public attention. This contrasts with his previous tenures, as he now seems intent on allowing his administration's results to speak for themselves. Notably, the Nepal Rastra Bank has introduced a new monetary policy, eliciting mixed reactions but holding potential as a remedy for the nation’s economic challenges. Despite a significant downturn in the stock market following the new government’s formation, there is optimism for progress in the real estate sector. The private sector, a crucial driver of growth, is adopting a cautious “wait and see” stance regarding the policy’s efficacy.

Progress is also evident in addressing the contentious issues surrounding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. A tripartite task force comprising the NC, UML, and the CPN (Maoist Center) is nearing a resolution of longstanding issues. If they reach a consensus, it will be a great achievement, given its two-decade history fraught with delays and disagreements. The Maoists, despite their recent ejection from power, are cooperating on TRC matters.

Unlike previous administrations, the Oli-led government has refrained from transferring government secretaries, as well as issuance of extensive, often unimplemented directives. The frequent transfer of secretaries has historically impeded service delivery. Additionally, the government is expediting ambassadorial appointments in key countries following the recall of ambassadors by the previous administration.

However, public scrutiny has emerged in response to some decisions by the UML and NC. The government's transfer of senior police officials has been poorly received, attracting criticism from opposition parties. The NC and UML are amicably resolving disputes over provincial government formations, marking a significant positive development. However, the selection of ministers at the provincial level has faced backlash. 

The administration has also contended with significant tragedies, including the Saurya plane crash and a fatal bus accident in Chitwan, which demanded urgent governmental response. Furthermore, the government had to rescue Nepali students in Bangladesh amid prolonged protests against the quota system in government jobs.

Despite these challenges, the government’s initial performance indicates a positive direction. It has not pursued ambitious yet unfeasible agendas, focusing instead on substantive progress. Criticism from ruling and opposition party leaders has been minimal. Favorable developments in the stock market, monetary policy, real estate sector, and declining inflation have created a conducive environment for the government.

While early indications are promising, numerous challenges remain. The government and political parties must abandon ineffective practices of the past. Prime ministers and ministers, in particular, should prioritize official duties over ceremonial engagements and project inaugurations to ensure continued progress.

A day after winning the vote of confidence, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Monday engaged in a questions-and-answer session with lawmakers from various political parties. The session covered a broad range of topics, reflecting diverse concerns and interests of the representatives. The members of parliament sought clarity on several key issues, such as infrastructure development, economic growth, good governance, corruption investigations, and ongoing national projects. Here’s the edited version of the Q&A session. 

When will the government start and complete the work of upgrading the Butwal-Pokhara (Siddhartha Highway) road section within the Gandaki Triangle to a dedicated two-lane? Also, what is the current status of the Aandhikhola High Dam Hydropower Project? Additionally, what preparations has the government made to end illegal transactions to improve the country’s economic situation? - Dhanraj Gurung, NC

The Gandaki Economic Triangle project, aimed at developing the Bharatpur-Butwal-Pokhara (Muglin) area in collaboration with the private sector, includes infrastructure, industrial growth, energy, agriculture, tourism and employment creation. The current fiscal year’s budget allocates funds for upgrading the Butwal-Pokhara (Siddhartha Highway) road section to a two-lane road, and the Siddhababa Tunnel work is nearly complete. The project is set to start in the first quarter of the fiscal year, with authorities instructed to begin work in Shrawan. 

The Aandhikhola High Dam Hydropower Project in Syangja district aims to generate 180 MW of electricity. Preliminary feasibility and environmental studies have been completed. But there is the main challenge of relocating 712 households. The government is committed to advancing this project by finalizing its modality and securing investment.

For economic governance, the government is adopting a risk-based assessment system for financial crimes. High-risk areas such as casinos, precious metals, cooperatives, real estate, remittances and banking will be closely monitored. A zero-tolerance policy against corruption will be implemented, with integrated promotion, preventive and corrective measures. Revenue leakage and illegal economic transactions will be controlled through coordinated efforts with related agencies. 

Systems like central invoice monitoring, ASYCUDA (automated system for customs data), VCIS (videojet visual code inspection system) and integrated taxpayer information systems will be developed to ensure effective revenue mobilization and economic governance.

During your previous tenure as prime minister, you issued a new map of Nepal including Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura. However, these areas remain only on the map. What is your policy, plan and strategy to bring these areas under Nepal’s control? - Deepak Bahadur Singh, RPP

Regarding Nepal’s international borders, the Federal Parliament, the Government of Nepal, and all Nepalis are firm on the new map of Nepal. The government is committed to resolving these issues through diplomatic negotiations with India, based on historical facts and evidence.

What initiatives will you take to investigate corruption scandals and examine the wealth amassed by politicians since 2046 BS? And will you move forward with constitutional amendments? - Dhawal Shamsher Rana, RPP

To improve public trust in governance, the government is committed to impartial and independent investigations into corruption allegations and unexplained wealth accumulation. Measures are being taken to address issues in the cooperative sector, including establishing cooperative loan recovery tribunals, credit information centers, and cooperative savings and loan protection funds. Concerning the amendments to the constitution, the process will be pursued through national consensus to address current issues and promote stability and prosperity.

When will the 828 MW Uttar Ganga Storage Hydroelectric Project in Dhorpatan municipality, Baglung, start power generation? When will the uranium extraction process in Lomantang begin? Additionally, when will the bill to operate Nepali cargo ships on international sea routes, which has remained in the Parliament for four years, be passed? - Devi Prakash Bhattachan, UML 

The Uttar Ganga Storage Hydroelectric Project, initially under the Nepal Electricity Authority, is now being developed by Uttar Ganga Power Company Limited. The feasibility study and environmental impact assessment are complete, and land acquisition is underway. The goal is to complete it within four years.

For the Lomantang uranium deposit, detailed exploration and industrial utilization modalities need development before extraction can begin. 

The bill to operate Nepali cargo ships is in the process of being presented in the Parliament after the cabinet’s approval on 11 July 2024.

During the tenure of the then NCP-led government, a decision was made in 2077 (four years ago) to hand over the construction of the remaining 79 kilometers of the 134-kilometer Darchula-Tinker Road to the Nepali Army. However, the construction of the road section has been hindered after it was merged into the “Mahakali Corridor Project.” Should the remaining 79 kilometers of the Darchula-Tinker Road be established as a separate project? Additionally, the cabinet decision on 3 May 2023 to remove the Mahakali river control office from Darchula has disrupted the flood control and maintenance works. I request the Prime Minister to instruct the concerned ministry to restore this office. - Dilendra Prasad Badu, NC

The Tusharpani-Kotedhar-Tinker section under the Mahakali Corridor Project is being constructed by the Nepali Army due to the presence of 80 percent hard rock, which facilitates the management of explosives and speeds up construction. No separate budget sub-head is maintained for roads constructed by the army, except for the Tarai-Madhes Fast Track. However, adequate budget allocation has been managed in the past and will continue to be ensured for construction progress.

For Mahakali river control, the office was relocated from Darchula to Patan in Baitadi to perform irrigation and river control works more effectively. A contact office and some technical staff are maintained in Darchula for embankment construction and monitoring. The office in Baitadi will continue these efforts.

Is there anything in the seven-point agreement that the general public would revolt against if they knew? Also, when will the bill forwarded to the Law and Human Rights Committee be finalized? - Durga Rai, Maoist Center

I have already informed this assembly about the seven-point agreement between the Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML in the context of gaining the vote of confidence yesterday. As for the bills stuck in parliamentary committees, I am hopeful that the committee members will actively and collaboratively work to finalize those bills. The government will fully support this process.

What is the government’s policy to ensure public transportation and road safety, given the tragic bus accident on July 12 in Trishuli? What is the status of the road standards and the mechanical condition of vehicles in Nepal? It’s been almost a year since the implementation of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) agreement began. How is the progress? Can we complete the project within the stipulated five years? - Deepak Giri, NC

Regarding the Trishuli bus accident, the bodies of 25 out of 62 missing passengers have been found so far, with 18 identified. Search efforts are ongoing with security personnel, and Indian divers have been involved since July 20. The bodies have been found in various locations, including Indian territories, and the search continues despite challenging conditions. The government is preparing a Road Safety Bill and has submitted a National Transport Policy to the cabinet for approval. The Road Safety Council will be established to systematically implement various road safety measures.

The MCC agreement implementation is progressing as planned. Substation construction contracts have been signed, and one section of the transmission line contract is in the final stages. The aim is to utilize the $500m grant within the agreement period. The project will significantly contribute to the development of Nepal’s energy sector and introduce new technologies for road upgrades.

The Koshi Western Canal constructed by the Indian government extends from the Koshi Barrage in Saptari district to India’s Laukahi, covering 32 kilometers in Nepal. India has built a paved road on its side, but the road on the Nepali side remains unpaved. Will the government initiate talks with India to pave the road? The road from Gaighat in Udayapur to the Indian border in Saptari district, which falls under the national pride project, has not been constructed either. Will it be built this fiscal year? Also, the Sunkoshi-Kamala Diversion project could provide irrigation services in Saptari. Will this project be constructed? - Dinesh Kumar Yadav, NC

The Koshi Western Canal’s road in Nepal is being paved gradually. The Nepal-India bilateral mechanism will be requested to remove encroachments and complete the paving. Preparatory works for the road from Gaighat to the Indian border were completed in the last fiscal. Due to financial constraints, it was not initiated, but it will be prioritized this fiscal year. The Sunkoshi-Kamala Diversion project, along with the Koshi High Dam, is under joint study by Nepal and India. Implementation of these projects will follow once the study is completed.

The government you led in 2018 initiated several national pride projects, constituency-focused strategic plans, and municipal-focused plans. Many of these projects remain incomplete or stalled. How do you plan to advance these projects? - Deepa Sharma, UML

To fulfill the dream of a prosperous Nepal and happy Nepali, my government, formed in 2018, initiated numerous national pride projects, constituency-focused strategic plans, and municipality-focused plans. This government prioritizes prompt completion of the initiated but incomplete and abandoned projects by ensuring the proper management of resources. By making the best use of limited resources, arrangements will be made to ensure that there is no shortage of budget for national pride projects, transformational projects, priority projects and other projects of national significance. Necessary budgets will be arranged for the completion of contracts under the ongoing projects.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is scheduled to respond to the queries of lawmakers in the House of Representatives (HoR) today.

The meeting of the HoR has been scheduled for 1 today.

Prime Minister Oli is participating in a question-and-answer session with lawmakers as per the Chapter 9 of the HoR Regulations, 2079 BS.

According to the Chapter, the Speaker shall fix the first hour of a day in the first week of each month for lawmakers to ask questions on important matters directly related to the Prime Minister or ministers within his or her jurisdiction.

This is PM Oli's first question and answer session with lawmakers after he was appointed the PM for a fourth term on July 14.

The PM had secured a vote of confidence with two-third majority from the HoR on Sunday.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli secured a vote of confidence in the Parliament on Sunday.

He garnered 188 votes while 74 members voted against him in the House of Representatives, the lower house of Parliament. A lawmaker remained neutral.

In the 275-member House of Representatives, 263 lawmakers were present in the meeting today.

Nepali Congress, UML, Ashok Rai-led Janata Samajbadi Party, Janata Samajbadi Party Nepal, Janamat Party and Democratic Socialist Party among others voted in favor of PM Oli.

CPN (Maoist Center), Rastriya Swatantra Party, CPN (Unified Socialist), Rastriya Swatantra Party and Janamorcha cast their votes against the vote of confidence.

CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli was appointed as the Prime Minister on July 14.

The newly appointed Prime Minister sought a trust vote at the House of Representatives (HoR) as per the Article 76(4) of the Constitution.

The Constitution of Nepal mandates that the Prime Minister appointed with the support of two or more than two political parties should seek a vote of confidence within 30 days of his/her appointment.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is seeking a vote of confidence in the Parliament today.

The Constitution of Nepal mandates that the Prime Minister appointed with the support of two or more than two political parties should seek a vote of confidence within 30 days of his/her appointment

The newly appointed Prime Minister is taking a trust vote at the House of Representatives (HoR) as per the Article 76(4) of the Constitution.

It may be noted that President Ram Chandra Paudel on July 14 had appointed Oli as the Prime Minister in accordance with the Article 76 (2) of the Constitution.

Chairperson of the CPN-UML, Oli was appointed the Prime Minister with the support of the Nepali Congress.

The Parliament meeting is scheduled for 1 pm today.

Prime Minister Oli (73) succeeded CPN (Maoist Center) Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal as the 45th Head of Executive of the country.

In the trust motion, Prime Minister Oli is likely to garner votes from his own party and the Nepali Congress as well as other fringe parties.

A total of 138 votes are required for a majority in the 275-member House of Representatives.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has congratulated and extended hearty best wishes to KP Sharma Oli for being appointed as the Prime Minister of Nepal for the fourth time.

The Pakistani PM has wished PM Oli a successful term in office and stated he is eager to work closely with him for further strengthening the Pakistan-Nepal ties.

Prime Minister Sharif expressed the confidence that bilateral as well as regional cooperation would be enhanced during Prime Minister Oli's term in office.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli took the oath of office and secrecy on Monday.

President Ram Chandra Paudel administered the oath of office and secrecy to PM Oli amidst a special ceremony organized at Sheetal Niwas this afternoon.

President Paudel appointed CPN-UML Chairman Oli as the prime minister as per Article 76 (2) of the Constitution of Nepal.

With this Oli has become the prime minister of Nepal for the fourth time.

He became the prime minister for the first time on October 11, 2015.

Later, he was appointed as the prime minister for the second time on February 15, 2018 and third time on May 13, 2021.

Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav, speaker of the House of Representatives Devraj Ghimire, Chief Justice Bishwombar Prasad Shrestha, National Assembly Chairman Narayan Prasad Dahal, outgoing prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, former prime ministers Sher Bahadur Deuba, Jhalanath Khanal, Baburam Bhattarai, lawmakers, representatives of diplomatic missions and chiefs of security agencies among others were present on the occasion.

After taking the oath of office and secrecy, Oli expanded his Cabinet

The Nepali Congress and CPN-UML, the first and second largest parties in Parliament, have agreed to form a national unity government. This coalition aims to amend the constitution adopted in 2015. 

According to the agreement, UML chair KP Sharma Oli will lead the government initially to push for constitutional amendments and then hand over power to NC leader Sher Bahadur Deuba to conduct the 2027 elections. Cross-party leaders acknowledge that amending key provisions of the constitution will be challenging. The NC-UML alliance anticipates strong opposition from the CPN (Maoist Center), Madhes-based parties, and other groups that support federalism, secularism, and identity-based federalism.

The new alliance needs to muster a two-thirds majority in Parliament for any constitutional amendment which seems feasible. The tentative agreement between NC and UML includes changes to the current electoral system, which many believe is one of the main causes of political instability and frequent government changes.

The two parties are of the view that the current mixed system of first-past-the-post and proportional representation makes it difficult to achieve a single-party majority. While leaders of the two major parties say that frequent coalition changes since the 2022 election highlight this issue, the electoral system is not solely to blame for instability. The new government also plans to remove the provision of secularism from the constitution, leaving the space blank. Additionally, NC and UML have agreed to revisit the current three-tier federal structure, considering it a significant burden onto the state. 

Despite their push for a national unity government, it is unlikely to materialize fully, as the Maoist party and the Rastriya Swatantra Party have decided not to join the future Oli-led government. However, the NC-UML coalition expects to achieve two-thirds support in Parliament with the help of fringe parties. NC and UML are reaching out to fringe parties in order to increase the strength of the government. 

It remains to be seen whether the fringe parties would wholly buy into the propositions put forward by NC and UML. Former prime minister Madhav Kumar Nepal’s party, CPN (Unified Socialist), criticized the latest coalition, likening it to tyranny. 

Notably, the leadership of both NC and UML have not yet held intra-party consultations about the content of the constitutional amendments. Shankar Pokharel, UML general secretary of the NC-UML coalition, emphasized their primary agenda is constitutional amendment and called on all parties to join the national unity government.

The CPN (Maoist Center) has expressed strong opposition to changing the electoral system, viewing it as a regressive step. The Rastriya Prajatantra Party, however, views the agreement between NC and UML positively, believing that the current constitution cannot address the country’s problems.

Background of NC-UML coalition 

In 2015, during the constitution-making process, NC and UML formed a coalition government that successfully delivered the constitution. Initially, NC was supposed to support UML for the coalition government, but it backtracked on its commitment, straining the relationship between the two parties. This tension peaked when UML chair Oli dissolved Parliament in 2020.

Over the past two years, NC leader Deuba was reluctant to engage with Oli, fearing it might affect NC’s relationship with the Maoist Center. When the Maoists sided with UML in March, NC leaders including Shekhar Koirala began reaching out to UML, but results were slow. There were voices within both parties advocating for a coalition to ensure government stability, though some were against it due to the competitive nature of the parties and concerns about weakening the opposition.

At the same time, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs Rabi Lamichhane was digging the files of some NC leaders accused in various corruption cases. Lately, with the surfacing of various corruption scandals, it was natural for the ranks of NC-UML to be fearful. As more scandals like the Giribandhu Tea Estate began to unravel, the situation became increasingly uncertain. Lamichhane had told Parliament on Monday that preparations were underway to form a powerful commission to investigate 25 corruption scandals.

Talks between NC and UML progressed three months ago  through a facilitator when Oli was in Jhapa for a week-long visit.  But the contents of the meetings were kept highly secret. On Saturday, Deuba and Oli held a candid and open discussion at Balkot, Oli’s residence. On Monday night, two top leaders signed in a document of agreement which remains top secret. Before the Balkot meeting, two secret meetings happened in Kathmandu. 

Despite initial distrust, several rounds of talks led Oli and Deuba to agree that the country faced a crisis due to constitutional flaws and the Dahal government’s mishandling of the situation. Oli was particularly frustrated with the Dahal-led government’s monopoly on decision-making, especially regarding the budget. As a result, UML withdrew its support from the government, requiring the prime minister to take a vote of confidence within 30 days. The formation of a new Oli-led government now depends on Prime Minister Dahal’s actions. Actually, Oli was in favor of keeping the agreement in secret with a plan to complete the entire process within a month but it was leaked in the media, that is why there was slow progress on Tuesday. 

Was Dahal kept in the dark?

Increased meetings between Oli and Dahal had raised concerns in Baluwatar. The prime minister was briefed by the Home Minister about these informal meetings. 

A recent meeting in Balkot prompted Prime Minister Dahal to invite Oli for talks, where Dahal asked Oli if he was forming a government with NC. Oli dismissed the reports, focusing on left unity until the general elections. However, after NC and UML agreed to form a new government, Dahal invited Oli again, urging transparency about the agreement with NC. 

Let’s briefly talk about the coalition of politics mainly after 2022. In the 2022 national elections, Dahal’s CPN (Maoist Center) emerged as the third-largest party with 32 seats. Despite an initial proposal from UML to form a coalition government, NC claimed the leadership and did not support the Maoists, despite an electoral alliance. 

Eventually, UML supported Dahal for the premiership, but he switched alliances multiple times between NC and UML. Dahal believed he could remain in power by playing between the first and second largest parties and was confident that external forces would not allow Oli to become prime minister.

Meanwhile, the leaders of both major parties were tired of the ‘opportunism’ and ‘turncoat’ character shown by Dahal, the third power in the parliament. Lately, Prime Minister Dahal had even started publicly speaking about the ‘magic number’. He began expressing the sentiment that he could remain prime minister for the entire five years by playing between UML and Congress.

Dahal’s expressions certainly unsettled Oli, eager to climb the chair of power, and Deuba, who wanted to become prime minister once again, sooner or later. Dahal’s statements violated the ‘gentlemen’s agreement’ of rotation with Oli. Oli had not taken Dahal from the alliance with NC to let him be prime minister alone for five years.

Had he understood the situation, Dahal could have found it easier to ally with NC. Even in an alliance with NC, Dahal would have had to give up the prime minister’s position to Deuba after two and a half years. Possibly, Dahal chose the difficult and survival path post-election? However, even after collaborating with UML, the ongoing dialogue with NC did not create an environment of trust. Meanwhile, Dahal also signaled a change in strategy. He began demanding that Oli allow him to run the entire period with the condition of unifying the party until the next election and stepping down from active politics to become the president. Oli clearly did not like this proposal.

In a political environment where betrayal has become a competition, Oli took the initiative this time. He went to Baluwatar, whispered sweet assurances in Dahal’s ear, and gave form to the new relationship. Dahal’s practice of betrayal with the magical number has become a strong fear of turning into a political culture, of which today’s players of the betrayal game could also become victims someday.

Future course

It seems likely that Oli will become prime minister. Dahal might attempt to break the agreement by offering the prime ministership position to Deuba, but this is unlikely to succeed. The constitutional amendment process will be challenging, potentially unleashing tensions. It remains to be seen how NC and UML will convince all stakeholders to support the amendments.

The UML has requested Prime Minister Dahal to resign by Wednesday. A leader revealed that the UML Secretariat meeting on Tuesday decided to ask Prime Minister Dahal to step down. 

This would pave the way for the formation of a new government under Article 76 (2) of the Constitution, according to the agreement between the UML and the Congress.

The UML has also invited other parties to join in forming a national consensus government led by Oli. According to sources, some parties including CPN (Maoist Center) could suffer a split in the run-up to the constitution amendment process.

Former Prime Minister and CPN-UML Chairman Sharma Oli has said national interest could be served better with unity among all political parties.

All parties' unity counts for the country's territorial unity, independence and national interest.

Chairman Oli was speaking at a program organized to inaugurate the ward office building for Dodhara Chandani Municipality-6 of Kanchapur district.

"Unity is essential also for curbing corruption and taking action against those involved in financial sleaze," he underscored.

He argued that development activities could not move forward in absence of political concord. Oli further viewed the importance of public service is reflected on how effectively they are delivered to the people. "I take initiative to solve the problems facing the people here," the former Prime Minister vowed.

On the occasion, Mayor of Dodhara Chandani Municipality, Kishor Limbu, sought UML Chairman Oli's cooperation on resolving problems facing the local people.

"Mahakali River erosion is a severe problem here. Shuklaphanta Reserve creates obstruction on development activities," he said.

Meanwhile, Chairman Oli inspected the four-lane motorable bridge over the Mahakali River and the site where the dry port is proposed.

Kathmandu: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal and the main opposition leader, CPN-UML Chairperson KP Sharma Oli, had a meeting on Friday at the Prime Minister’s Office in Singha Durbar. They discussed two important issues: the upcoming visit of the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to Nepal and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Bill.

Guterres is scheduled to visit Nepal on Oct 29 and will address a joint meeting of the Federal Parliament on Oct 31. Prime Minister Dahal aims to pass the transitional justice bill before Guterres’ arrival, but this requires the support of the main opposition. 

While there is agreement on most aspects of the bill, the major point of contention is the provision granting immunity to individuals accused of murder, considering murder as a human rights violation. The government is attempting to address issues related to murder through reconciliation. They plan to reclassify murder as a human rights violation rather than a serious crime, which has the support of the Congress and Maoists in the ruling coalition. However, UML has not accepted this change.

UML whip Mahesh Bartaula says they are open to reaching an agreement on the bill before the UN Secretary-General’s visit, but he accuses the government of creating tension instead of cooperation. “Prime Minister Dahal’s decision to grant a holiday on People’s War Day contributes to this tension,” he says.

A sub-committee under the Law, Justice, and Human Rights Committee has prepared a report on amending the ‘Bill to amend the Commission for Investigation of Disappeared Persons, Truth and Reconciliation Act’ through consensus over the past month and a half. Bartaula, a member of the sub-committee, says most issues have been resolved, except for the topic of reconciliation in cases of serious incidents like murder.

UML’s stance is to not use reconciliation to absolve individuals of murder except in cases of double confrontations. They argue that such cases should be prosecuted. 

The issue of child soldiers during the armed conflict is another concern. While an agreement refers to these children as “connected parties of the conflict”, UML believes this issue is being unnecessarily prolonged for political reasons and calls for additional discussions.

Chair of the Human Rights Committee and CPN (Maoist Center) leader Bimala Subedi expressed optimism that the bill will move forward, emphasizing the need for consensus to resolve this sensitive issue. She highlighted the importance of political-level consensus, as it’s a long-standing matter. 

Four issues remain to be discussed within the committee, and Subedi believes that a positive environment for resolution is now present, especially following the meeting between the Prime Minister and the main opposition leader. 

Prime Minister Dahal had previously attempted to pass this bill in time he went to the United Nations General Assembly—to no avail.

CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma has come down heavily on the Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led ruling coalition, likening it to a slow poison for the republic and questioning its commitment to democracy, the Constitution and its conduct of foreign relations. 

Oli launched a multi-pronged attack against the Dahal-led dispensation through his address to the House of Representatives on Tuesday, saying, “This government cannot administer one fatal dose (to democracy and the republican order). Nonetheless, it is acting as a slow poison for democracy and the Constitution. 

He accused the Dahal-led dispensation of suppressing the voices of the people and conspiring to render the Parliament useless by not giving businesses to the House and its committees. 

Oli went on to elaborate the characteristics of the dispensation thus, “While this government does not do what the Constitution has told it to do, it does what the Charter has barred it from doing—without fail”. 

Referring to the recent Cabinet decision to declare Fagun 1—the day the Maoist insurgency was waged 27 years ago (13 Feb 1996)—as a public holiday, the UML chair accused the government of glorifying violence through the move. The decision to celebrate the day has further hurt the sentiments of conflict victims, Oli said, demanding that the next Cabinet meeting withdraw the decision. 

He also protested the government move to grant blanket amnesty to criminals in the name of marking Constitution Day and turning the President into an entity that does the government’s bidding. 

Oli also took the government to task on ongoing investigations into corruption cases. The government opened Lalita Niwas scam files with much hullabaloo, now it is finding it hard to close them, Oli claimed, “The (60-kg) gold-smuggling case is also giving the government a hard time.” 

The government’s good governance campaign is actually aimed at shielding smugglers and murderers, he went on. 

This dispensation has appointed those candidates, who failed exams for district judges, as well as those who helped out election candidates from the ruling dispensation as judges, he maintained, adding that it is futile to hope for a better performance from this government. 

The conduct of diplomacy also came under Oli’s crosshairs as the latter blamed PM Dahal for failing to raise Nepal’s concerns during his recent visits to the United Nations, China and India.   

CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli has described party Vice-Chair Subash Chandra Nembang as not only his party Vice-Chair, but also a close friend and comrade-in-arms.

The UML Chair took to the social media in paying tributes to Nembang and wrote: "We will always remember the contribution he made for drafting the democratic constitution. Heartfelt condolences to a soft-spoken, polite and decent colleague Subash Nembang!"

Nembang succumbed to a heart attack at 1:40 am today while receiving treatment at the Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital in Maharajgunj. He was 71.