KATHMANDU: With the National Assembly (NA) Chairman’s seat up for contention, the political arena in Kathmandu buzzes with anticipation as the newly formed coalition government allocates the coveted post to CPN (Maoist Center), while CPN-UML secures the Vice Chairman position.

Scheduled for Tuesday, parties, particularly the Maoist Center and the main opposition Nepali Congress, gear up for the election, preparing to announce their candidates.

Aspirants from CPN (Maoist Center)

Presently, the party presents three contenders: Narayan Dahal, Jhakku Subedi, and Urmila Aryal, the current Vice-Chairman of the Assembly.

Party insiders indicate a probable endorsement of Narayan Dahal, backed by senior party leaders and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

As per the coalition agreement, CPN-UML, CPN (US), and Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) commit to supporting the Maoist Center’s candidate.

Will Situala represent Nepali Congress?

Despite Nepali Congress’s resolve to contest the NA Chairman election, the party deliberates on selecting its candidate, while also seeking support from other opposition parties.

Amidst shifting political dynamics, the party contemplates nominating Krishna Prasad Sitaula for the position, acknowledging potential challenges.

Vote Dynamics

CPN (Maoist Center) boasts the largest presence in the 59-member NA with 18 seats, followed by Nepali Congress with 16 seats, CPN-UML with 10, CPN (US) with eight, JSP with three, and Loktantrik Samajbadi Party with one.

Should the Maoist Center secure all votes from the ruling alliance, it would gather 39 votes, exceeding the required majority by 10 votes.

As the stage is set for the NA Chair election, political maneuvering and strategic alliances shape the landscape, determining the trajectory of Nepal’s parliamentary leadership.