KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you an in-depth weekly recap of notable events every Monday morning.
The preceding week witnessed heightened political tensions as the activities surrounding the January 25 National Assembly elections added fuel to the already smoldering political fire, deepening the chasm between the ruling party and the opposition.
In a noteworthy controversy, the government led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda faced scrutiny over a bilateral agreement during Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar’s two-day visit to Nepal.
Prime Minister Dahal found himself in the hot seat, requiring an explanation before the parliamentary committee.
The week also marked the Nepali Congress’s observance of Reconciliation Day, marred by controversy as they overlooked inviting the Rastriya Swatantra Party led by Rabi Lamichhane and the Rastriya Prajatantra Party led by Rajendra Lingden. Instead, Lamichhane visited Balkot to meet UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli.
Let’s delve into the significant events:
Balkumari Incident: Government Unresponsive
Following the clash in Balkumari that claimed lives, the government remained indifferent to the escalating situation.
The only action taken was recalling Lalitpur CDO Rudra Prasad Pandit to the Home Ministry and transferring SSP Siddhi Bikram Shah to headquarters.
To alleviate the suffering, the government pledged financial aid and medical treatment to the affected families and initiated an impartial investigation.
A committee, led by a former judge, was established to probe the incident. Prime Minister Dahal hinted at a hidden motive, emphasizing the abnormality of the occurrence. Despite this, violence persisted, raising concerns about the government’s responsiveness.
Efforts Towards Power Sharing in the National Assembly
A political development unfolded in Baluwatar as Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal addressed the seat allocation challenge within the ruling coalition for the upcoming National Assembly elections.
The absence of consensus led to CPN-UML proposing to support the TRC Bill in exchange for six seats.
However, the lack of finalization resulted in the UML deciding to contest all 19 seats, indicating coalition disagreement.
RSP Omitted
Nepali Congress’ Reconciliation Day stirred controversy as the Rastriya Swatantra Party was excluded. UML Chairman Oli advocated for reconciliation but accused RSP of unfair treatment.
Former PM Baburam Bhattarai emphasized the need for an all-party government. In an exclusive interview, RSP’s General Secretary Mukul Dhakal expressed confidence, stating they don’t align with old parties.
Rabi Lamichhane, RSP Chairman, met UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli.
The Jaishankar Wave
Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit stirred political ripples, with criticism directed at the government for raising the aid budget from Rs 50 million to Rs 200 million. Jhalnath Khanal labeled it a national assault.
Prime Minister Dahal responded to the parliamentary committee and submitted the Constitutional Council Bill draft.
Meanwhile, two individuals enlisting in the Russian army lost their lives, and concerns persist regarding deceptive practices promising jobs in Russia.
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