Political turmoil unfolds in Nepal as government faces imminent change

KATHMANDU: In a dramatic turn of events, Surendra Pandey, vice chairman of the CPN-UML, took to social media to announce that the current ruling coalition government is on the brink of collapse, signaling a major shift in Nepal’s political landscape.

Pandey’s statement, asserting that the government will change and a new Cabinet will be formed on the same day, has prompted swift responses from various political parties, including the Nepali Congress. Both the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML have convened separate meetings to strategize and discuss the unfolding situation.

The Nepali Congress initiated an office-bearers’ meeting, while the CPN-UML held a secretariat meeting in the morning. The UML secretariat expressed readiness to explore new avenues if the current alliance dissolves, setting the stage for potential political realignments.

Following the UML meeting, discussions between UML Chairman Oli and Janamat Party Chairman CK Raut commenced in Balkot. The ongoing talks, focused on the latest political developments, could result in the Janmat Party becoming part of the new government if an agreement is reached.

Simultaneously, the Janata Samajwadi Party is conducting a meeting, and the Rastriya Swatantra Party has tasked Chairman Rabi Lamichhane with deciding on the unfolding political situation.

A scheduled meeting of the ruling coalition this morning was postponed due to a lack of dialogue, heightening the uncertainty surrounding the government’s future.

In a significant development, the Maoist Center, in its office-bearers’ meeting held in Baluwatar, decided to recall all its ministers from the current government. Additionally, plans were made to form a new, smaller Council of Ministers later in the day.

The political landscape is expected to see significant changes, with the likelihood of CPN-UML, Rastriya Swatantra Party, and Janata Samajwadi Party joining the government alongside the Maoist Center. However, the composition of the new cabinet remains undecided.

There are indications that Padam Giri may represent the UML in the government, while Swarnim Wagle could potentially represent the Rastriya Swatantra Party.

It is worth noting that the current government, led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal, was formed on December 25, 2022, in collaboration with the Nepali Congress. As the political developments unfold, Nepal braces for a potentially transformative shift in its governance and coalition dynamics.