BIRATNAGAR: The CPN-UML’s abrupt withdrawal of its support from the Koshi Province government after 19 days of participation has prompted discussions about the potential implications.

The withdrawal, although anticipated, has caused significant confusion and legal intricacies regarding the official procedure, as per Article 168 of the Constitution, concerning the termination of government support.

Hikmat Kumar Karki, the leader of the CPN-UML parliamentary party, announced their transition into the opposition, leaving the decision about further support to be determined by the government’s future actions and initiatives.

“We will now be in the opposition,” Karki stated.

“Our decision regarding support will be determined by the government’s activities. The decision to leave the government upon coalition participation was predetermined. The future course of action will be contingent upon the political schedule,” he further added.

The party’s Chief Whip, Rewati Raman Bhandari, affirmed that a final decision on continued support will be made following additional legal consultation to address the existing complexities.

Kedar Karki, the Chief Minister appointed with the support of CPN-UML, is now faced with the possibility of undergoing a vote of confidence if the UML MPs proceed with their withdrawal.

With the current coalition’s support of 47 MPs, Karki remains in a majority position, but the potential addition of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) could secure an even stronger backing of 53 MPs.

In response to the CPN-UML’s departure, Chief Minister Karki emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration for the province’s progress.

Despite the recent developments, he extended an invitation for a consensual government, acknowledging the significant support received during the government’s formation and expressing a desire to continue working together for the province’s welfare.

“The way to build a consensual government in the province remains open,” Karki asserted. “We need to unite all the transformative forces in the state for our collective success,” he added.