KATHMANDU: Last week in Nepal was marked by significant political, social, and economic developments that captured public attention and highlighted the country’s dynamic landscape.
Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba sought to dispel rumors about the instability of the ruling coalition.
Addressing a gathering in Dhangadhi, she assured the public that the alliance between the Nepali Congress and UML remains firm, with a shared commitment to completing the government’s full term.
This reassurance came amidst speculations about the coalition’s potential collapse, a narrative she firmly dismissed as baseless. Dr. Rana emphasized the government’s focus on stability and progress, aligning with the nation’s aspirations for good governance and development.
In contrast, internal tensions within the CPN-UML surfaced prominently. Ghanshyam Bhusal of the CPN-Unified Socialist criticized UML Chairperson KP Sharma Oli, describing his leadership as authoritarian and divisive.
Bhusal highlighted the expulsion of Bhim Rawal from the UML as a consequence of dissent and invited him to join the Unified Socialist party.
Overall, the week encapsulated a mix of political maneuvering, developmental strides, cultural celebrations, and international engagement, reflecting the complexities and aspirations shaping Nepal today.
Meanwhile, Bhim Rawal, undeterred by his expulsion, launched a campaign questioning Oli’s leadership with 74 pointed questions, signaling deep fractures within the party.
The Nepali Congress announced a strategic shift, with leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala declaring the party’s intent to contest upcoming elections independently at all levels.
While acknowledging the necessity of past coalitions, Koirala framed this decision as a move toward reclaiming the party’s autonomy and strength.
The UML’s internal dynamics took another turn as the party suspended Dr. Binda Pandey and other members for disciplinary reasons, while inducting beauty pageant winner Bibha Basnet.
This juxtaposition of disciplinary action and new inclusions reflected the party’s ongoing recalibration of its internal structure.
Beyond politics, development projects took center stage. The Nepal Electricity Authority committed to ensuring uninterrupted power supply for the Kathmandu-Tarai Fast Track construction, highlighting its prioritization as a project of national pride.
Simultaneously, the Nepal Oil Corporation announced a hike in fuel prices, a decision likely to ripple through the economy and affect public sentiment.
Tourism emerged as a bright spot, with Nepal recording over 1.14 million tourist arrivals in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic figures from 2019.
Events like the Dragon Boat Race Festival in Pokhara underscored efforts to boost tourism while strengthening cultural ties with China.
Cultural celebrations, such as the Gurung community’s Tamu Lhosar, added to the week’s vibrancy, showcasing Nepal’s rich heritage.
The passing of former Supreme Court Justice Prakash Wasti at 71 brought a somber note to the week. His contributions to the judiciary were widely acknowledged as a loss to the nation.
Meanwhile, the government moved forward with ambassadorial appointments, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity, and announced January 30 as National Anti-Money Laundering Day.
Internationally, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli held discussions with former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, reinforcing Nepal-Sri Lanka ties. Wickremesinghe’s visit highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relationships.
Overall, the week encapsulated a mix of political maneuvering, developmental strides, cultural celebrations, and international engagement, reflecting the complexities and aspirations shaping Nepal today.
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