KATHMANDU: Hikmat Karki, the parliamentary party leader of CPN-UML, assumed office as the Chief Minister of Koshi Province on Thursday, marking his third tenure in the role.

The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Province Chief Parshuram Khapung.

Earlier, Karki had asserted his claim for the Chief Minister position to Parshuram Khapung, garnering support from 52 MPs, including 39 from UML and 13 from the Maoist Center, leading to his appointment.

Meanwhile, outgoing Chief Minister Kedar Karki has filed a petition challenging the decision of the Speaker to initiate the formation of a new government and the appointment of a new CM.

The case is scheduled for a hearing on Friday.

The political landscape in the province has been evolving following changes in power dynamics at the center.

A total of 52 members from UML and the Maoists withdrew their support from former Chief Minister Kedar Karki.

With no resolution regarding a vote of confidence registered within 30 days of the withdrawal, as per constitutional provisions, the Koshi Provincial Assembly Secretariat initiated further proceedings.