KATHMANDU: The administration, led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, has found itself in a minority situation, causing the CPN-UML to join the opposition bench during a federal parliament sitting on Sunday. Chief Whip Mahesh Bartaula of the CPN-UML chastised Prime Minister Dahal, accusing him of prolonging his resignation despite losing support. Bartaula reaffirmed the CPN-UML's position that Dahal should retire immediately to ensure a seamless transition of power.
Members of the ruling Maoist Center, a coalition government, responded to the CPN-UML's resignation request by stating that Prime Minister Dahal will instead request a vote of confidence. Bartaula objected to this delay strategy, claiming that the Prime Minister's unwillingness to leave is aggravating political tensions and endangering instability in Nepal.
Speaker Devraj Ghimire informed the House of Representatives that Prime Minister Dahal has submitted a letter to place the resolution for a vote of confidence on the agenda for July 12. According to Article 100(2) of the Constitution, when a supporting party withdraws its backing, the Prime Minister must seek a vote of confidence within 30 days. Currently, Prime Minister Dahal's Maoist Center holds 32 seats in parliament, making them the third largest party, while other smaller parties in the coalition have indicated support for him.
Despite facing likely defeat in the vote of confidence due to a lack of sufficient parliamentary support, Prime Minister Dahal aims to initiate the constitutional process under Article 76(3) if he fails under Article 76(2). This move has sparked concerns and accusations of hidden agendas, with the CPN-UML and Nepali Congress insisting on forming a new government under Article 76(2).
The coalition of Nepali Congress and CPN-UML commands a significant majority with 166 MPs in the House of Representatives, along with potential support from other smaller parties. They have urged Prime Minister Dahal's government to refrain from making significant decisions, citing concerns over its legitimacy amid the pending confidence vote. Despite the pressure, reports suggest that the government has proceeded with controversial decisions such as interviews for high-level appointments at Nepal Telecom, further fueling political tensions in Nepal.
