KATHMANDU: Last week saw a series of significant events spanning political, social, and economic issues in Nepal, showcasing a mix of government actions, party stances, and public concerns.
Winter session of Federal Parliament begins
The winter session of Parliament kicked off with procedural developments and agendas, such as the Speaker reading President’s letters.
However, tensions soon followed, with Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli defending controversial ordinances that bypassed Parliament, a move that sparked criticism from opposition parties.
This division over the government’s approach to legislation highlights growing friction between the ruling coalition and opposition groups like the Maoist Center, which has vowed to reject these ordinances in Parliament.
Political and constitutional debates
Prime Minister KP Oli’s clarification on ordinances and the commitment from Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba for broader political consensus over constitutional amendments were notable.
Deuba’s proposal for a consensus approach to amend the Constitution reflects the ongoing tension regarding Nepal’s constitutional framework and future political inclusivity.
Opposition parties, including the Maoists, are positioning themselves against the government’s actions, signaling that the upcoming parliamentary session could witness more intense debates over governance and reforms.
Rabi Lamichhane urges lifting suspension
Another event that garnered attention was the formal petition submitted by Rabi Lamichhane, requesting the Speaker to lift his suspension from Parliament.
Lamichhane’s suspension continues to be a contentious issue, especially after he was granted bail in several ongoing cases, raising questions about the legal and political implications of his membership status in the House of Representatives.
Social concerns: Crimes and celebrations
On the social front, the tragic deaths of two teenage girls in Achham raised alarm over safety concerns, with suspicions of foul play prompting investigations.
In contrast, the country observed Martyrs’ Day and Sonam Lhosar, celebrations that highlight national pride and the Tamang community’s cultural significance, respectively.
These events demonstrated Nepal’s ongoing commitment to honoring its history while embracing its rich cultural diversity.
Economic developments:
Economically, the Nepal Oil Corporation’s hike in petroleum prices was a major concern, particularly for everyday consumers, as prices for petrol, diesel, and kerosene increased.
This price surge reflects the ongoing challenges the government faces in managing inflation and ensuring economic stability, further compounded by external pressures like global fuel prices.
Sports: Nepal’s cricket challenges
On the sports front, Nepal faced disappointing results in the triangular T20 series, losing to both the Netherlands and Thailand.
These defeats highlighted areas for improvement in Nepal’s national cricket teams and the challenges they face in international competitions.
In summary, last week’s events in Nepal underscored the ongoing political and constitutional debates, rising economic concerns, and social challenges, all within a broader context of national unity and governance.
The diverse nature of these events reflects the dynamic state of Nepalese society, where progress, opposition, and controversy continue to coexist.
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