KATHMANDU: Last week in Nepal was marked by a series of significant political, infrastructural, and environmental developments, reflecting a period of dynamic change and challenges across the country.
Political Shifts and Leadership Changes
The political landscape of Nepal saw notable changes with the resignation of Dirgha Bahadur Sodari, the Chief Minister of Sudurpaschim Province.
Sodari’s resignation on Friday came in the wake of a looming vote of confidence, which he was expected to lose. His administration had lost its majority after the UML withdrew its support.
The provincial assembly, consisting of 53 members from various parties such as the Nepali Congress, UML, Maoist Center, Nagarik Unmukti Party, and others, now faces a reconfiguration of leadership as it navigates this sudden change.
Amidst this upheaval, the appointment of new province chiefs on Thursday marked another significant political development.
President Ram Chandra Paudel administered the oaths of office to the new provincial heads.
The new appointments were Deepak Prasad Devkota for Bagmati Province, Krishna Bahadur Garti Magar for Lumbini Province, and Yagya Joshi for Karnali Province.
Overall, last week was a period of substantial change and challenge for Nepal, marked by political shifts, infrastructural advancements, severe weather impacts, and important governance developments.
These appointments were made in accordance with Article 163 (2) of the Constitution of Nepal, following recommendations from the government. The new province chiefs are expected to play crucial roles in the governance and development of their respective regions.
Legislative and Governance Developments
The task force working on the amendment of the Act of the Investigation, Truth, and Reconciliation Commission of Disappeared Persons made progress last week.
On Thursday morning, the task force, which includes prominent figures such as Janardan Sharma from the Maoist Center, reached a consensus on the bill. The agreement was reached after extensive discussions at the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The final report is now prepared to be submitted to the top leaders, potentially marking a crucial step forward in addressing issues related to truth and reconciliation in Nepal.
In Bagmati Province, Bahadur Singh Lama successfully secured a vote of confidence on Tuesday, affirming his position as Chief Minister.
Lama, who is also the parliamentary party leader of the Nepali Congress (NC), received a strong endorsement with 64 votes in his favor.
This support came from 27 lawmakers each from the Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML.
Despite this, 35 lawmakers from other parties, including the CPN (Maoist Center) and CPN (Unified Socialist), opposed him.
The Nepal Workers Peasants Party chose to stay neutral, highlighting the complex political alliances and divisions within the provincial assembly.
Infrastructure and Development
On the infrastructure front, the Millennium Challenge Account – Nepal (MCA-Nepal) achieved a significant milestone by signing the final contract for a 400 kV substation project.
The contract, valued at $38.89 million, involves the construction of the New Damauli Substation in Tanahun district. This substation, once completed, will have a capacity of 1000 Mega Volt Ampere and will be one of the largest in the country.
It will play a crucial role in connecting power flow with other major substations, including Ratmate, Lekhnath, and New Butwal. This development is part of the MCA-Nepal Compact, aimed at enhancing Nepal’s power transmission infrastructure.
Environmental Challenges
The country also faced significant environmental challenges last week due to heavy rains.
Extensive flooding occurred in Kathmandu and surrounding areas, leading to severe disruptions.
The Narefat area and corridor roads in Manoharakhola and Dobhan were particularly affected, with the Manohara Corridor completely inundated. Floodwaters also caused damage in Lalitpur’s Mahalaxmi Municipality.
The Weather Forecasting Division issued a high alert as the water level of the Godawari River exceeded dangerous levels.
The bus was returning from a school trip when it overturned in Fusrekhola. Rescue efforts were immediately undertaken by the police and local residents, with the injured being transported to the hospital for treatment.
The Division’s warnings extended to various provinces, including Koshi, Madhes, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Lumbini, with predictions of continued heavy rain, thunder, and lightning. Residents across these regions were advised to remain on high alert due to the ongoing risk of flooding.
Governance and Public Service
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli made a significant call for improved governance by directing all ministers and secretaries to focus on goal-oriented and result-driven work.
During a meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, Oli emphasized the need for adherence to laws and regulations, effective delegation of authority, and the setting of clear objectives. He urged for performance agreements and periodic planning to ensure smooth and efficient public service delivery.
Diplomatic and Legal Developments
In diplomatic matters, the Council of Ministers recommended new ambassadors for 18 countries.
This includes the continuation of Dr. Shankar Sharma as Nepal’s Ambassador to India, along with other notable appointments such as former Chief Secretary Lokdarshan Regmi and former Secretary Chandra Ghimire to ambassadorial positions.
Dr. Netra Prasad Timsina was recommended for the role of Ambassador to Malaysia, highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen Nepal’s international diplomatic presence.
On the legal front, suspended Chief Secretary Baikuntha Aryal was released on bail of Rs 50,000.
Aryal, who faced corruption charges related to financial irregularities during his tenure as Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, appeared before the Special Court.
His release comes after 35 days of legal proceedings following charges of embezzlement amounting to Rs 386,671,640.
Accidents and Rescue Operations
Lastly, a tragic accident occurred in Pokhara when a school bus carrying students from LP Devkota Memorial School overturned.
The incident, which took place on Monday, involved 24 occupants including the driver and co-driver.
The bus was returning from a school trip when it overturned in Fusrekhola. Rescue efforts were immediately undertaken by the police and local residents, with the injured being transported to the hospital for treatment.
Overall, last week was a period of substantial change and challenge for Nepal, marked by political shifts, infrastructural advancements, severe weather impacts, and important governance developments.
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