KATHMANDU: The ruling coalition faces internal discord after the CPN-UML attempted to remove the ‘cooling-off period’ provision in the Federal Civil Service Bill without prior consultation with its partner, the Nepali Congress.
The UML-led government had initially joined hands with the Nepali Congress in Asar 17, 2081 BS, forming a coalition based on a seven-point agreement with commitments to good governance and anti-corruption. However, their unity now appears strained after the UML’s move in the National Assembly to revise a key provision.
The provision in question, inserted by the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee of the House of Representatives, bars retired civil servants from holding constitutional or government positions for two years after retirement. This rule was unanimously endorsed by the committee.
Despite this consensus, UML lawmakers registered an amendment in the National Assembly on Sunday seeking to remove clause number 4 of Article 82 from the bill. The amendment, led by UML chief whip Gopal Bhattarai and backed by four other lawmakers, appears to serve the interests of retired officials, including secretaries and the chief secretary, who are reportedly eyeing high-level appointments like ambassadors and constitutional roles.
In response, the Nepali Congress registered its own amendment through chief whip Krishna Bahadur Rokaya and MP Anand Prasad Dhungana, insisting on retaining the two-year cooling-off period. Congress leaders argue that allowing immediate political appointments for recently retired bureaucrats could compromise administrative neutrality and institutional integrity.
The controversy escalated after UML’s amendment drew criticism from senior Nepali Congress leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala. Taking to Facebook, Koirala accused UML of betrayal, stating that the move undermines trust between coalition partners and violates previous agreements.
“The amendment tabled by UML lawmakers is not only objectionable but a betrayal of the people, democracy, and the spirit of the coalition,” Koirala said. He added that Congress must now seek an official clarification from UML and rally support from other parties to defeat the amendment.
“The cooling-off period must stay, stay, and stay. Let there be no confusion,” Koirala wrote.
The dispute underscores rising tensions within the coalition and raises questions about future collaboration between the two major parties.
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