KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you key developments from across Nepal, covering politics, business and economy, sports, entertainment, and other major events of the day.
Ordinance aimed at faster governance, not ulterior motives: Law Minister Gautam
Amid growing criticism over the government’s recent ordinance, Law Minister Sobita Gautam has issued a clarification, saying the move was intended to accelerate governance and not to serve any ulterior interests. In a video message posted on social media on Sunday morning, she said the ordinance was introduced to enable faster work and more effective resolution of public issues. “This ordinance was not brought to fulfill any ulterior motive. It was brought to do good work, to work quickly, and to resolve people’s issues more effectively,” she said. Gautam argued that even under a fast-track parliamentary process, it can take at least three to four months to pass a law, necessitating the use of an ordinance in urgent situations.
Rabi Lamichhane says landless squatters will not be displaced, housing to be provided
Chairperson of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, Rabi Lamichhane, has said that landless and squatter communities will not be rendered homeless under any circumstances, assuring that alternative housing and land will be provided. Speaking to journalists after a secretariat meeting at the party’s central office in Banasthali on Sunday, Lamichhane said the government’s current actions are focused only on managing settlements in high-risk areas prone to floods and landslides. He said there is no need for nationwide panic among squatters and landless citizens, adding that the ongoing relocation efforts are aimed at ensuring public safety rather than displacement.
PM Balen Shah prepares plan to reduce federal ministries to 17
Prime Minister Balendra Shah has prepared a proposal to restructure the federal government by reducing the number of ministries from 25 to 17. According to officials at the Prime Minister’s Office, the plan involves merging and reorganizing several existing ministries, with eight ministries set to be scrapped or integrated into other portfolios. Under the proposed structure, some ministries will be consolidated into broader sectors. For instance, a unified infrastructure ministry will combine responsibilities related to physical infrastructure, urban development, and water supply and sanitation.
Acting mayor Dangol urges schools to provide residential education for children in holding centres
Acting Mayor of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Sunita Dangol, has urged private and institutional schools to support children currently living in holding centres by providing residential education facilities. Dangol held discussions with representatives of Private and Boarding Schools’ Organization Nepal (PABSON) and National Private and Boarding Schools’ Association Nepal (NPABSON) at the Rashtriya Sabha Griha on Sunday. The discussion focused on arranging free, regular education with residential facilities for children currently staying at the holding centre operated at Radhaswami Satsang Byas Ashram in Kirtipur, where families displaced from informal riverbank settlements have been temporarily relocated.
RSP urges govt not to act against non-squatters until report on landless is finalized
The Rastriya Swatantra Party has urged the government not to take action against individuals other than genuine landless squatters until a formal assessment is completed. A secretariat meeting of the party made five key decisions, including those related to squatter management, candidate selection, and preparations for the general convention, according to party spokesperson Manish Jha. The party decided to recommend that the government form an empowered authority to address the issue of unplanned settlements across the country. It also called on the government to refrain from taking any action, except in the case of verified landless squatters, until the authority submits its report.
President cites past decisions while returning Constitutional Council ordinance
President Ramchandra Paudel has returned the ordinance related to the Constitutional Council to the government for reconsideration, recalling two of his earlier decisions on the same issue. According to a statement issued by the Office of the President at Shital Niwas, the “Constitutional Council (Functions, Duties, Powers and Procedures) (First Amendment) Ordinance, 2083” was sent back following a recommendation from the Council of Ministers led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah. The statement noted that a bill on the same subject had earlier been presented for authentication on July 9, 2025, but was returned with a message for reconsideration.
President authenticates ordinance amending Nepal Acts
President Ramchandra Paudel has authenticated an ordinance to amend various Nepal Acts. The ordinance titled “Some Nepal Acts Amendment Ordinance, 2083” was issued on the recommendation of the Council of Ministers in accordance with Article 114 (1) of the Constitution. According to a statement issued by the Office of the President, spokesperson Ritesh Kumar Shakya said the ordinance has come into effect from Sunday.
President returns Constitutional Council ordinance to govt for reconsideration
President Ramchandra Paudel has returned the ordinance related to the Constitutional Council to the government for reconsideration. The decision came after nearly a week of legal consultations. While the President authenticated several other ordinances, the one concerning the Constitutional Council was sent back, according to his press advisor Baburam Kunwar. The ordinance has been returned to the government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah for further review after detailed study.
Rabi Lamichhane delivers 10 key messages to private sector
Amid growing concerns among business leaders, Chair of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, Rabi Lamichhane, has outlined 10 key messages to reassure the private sector. The outreach comes at a time when businesses have expressed unease following arrests of entrepreneurs, including former president of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Shekhar Golchha. Lamichhane addressed private sector representatives during an interaction, emphasizing governance reforms and economic recovery, while attempting to ease fears over recent government actions under the leadership of Prime Minister Balen Shah.
Authorities step up demolition of encroached settlements in Kathmandu
The campaign to remove illegally constructed structures encroaching on government and public land across the Kathmandu Valley has been intensified. The operation is being carried out in coordination between the Ministry of Urban Development, the District Administration Office Kathmandu, and the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), with demolition drives ongoing in multiple river corridor areas. In the Dhobikhola River corridor, unplanned and encroached structures have been removed in the Anamnagar–Devinagar area as part of the ongoing clearance effort. Similarly, work is underway to remove illegal constructions along the Bishnumati River corridor in the Balaju–Machhapokhari and Tilganga areas under KMC-16.
RSP tightens candidate selection rules ahead of local polls
The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has made it mandatory for aspiring candidates in the upcoming local elections to pass through the Candidate Club and Leadership Academy before filing nominations. Under the new provision, party members seeking tickets for positions such as ward chair, municipal chair, vice-chair, and mayor/deputy mayor must complete and pass the structured training process, which includes study and evaluation through these two platforms. The decision was taken by the party’s central secretariat meeting held on Sunday, according to spokesperson Manish Jha. The RSP, which has begun preparations for the upcoming local elections, has also moved forward with plans to align local and provincial assembly election strategies.
RSP assures industrialists: no intention to harm businesses
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane has urged industrialists not to be fearful, assuring that the government does not intend to undermine or damage the private sector. Speaking at a meeting with private sector representatives on Sunday, Lamichhane said the government’s objective is not to discourage business activity but to pursue policy reforms aimed at improving governance and the economic environment. He called on industrialists to support the government’s good governance campaign, stating that progress can be achieved only through cooperation between the state and the private sector. However, he also noted that the government would strictly monitor activities that negatively impact the economy. Lamichhane acknowledged that in the past, political instability had led to situations where businesspersons faced pressure from different power centres. He said the government was aware of those experiences and assured that such circumstances would not be repeated.
Landslides block major highways and road sections
Several major highways and road sections across the country have been completely blocked due to landslides triggered by continuous rainfall over the past few days. According to Central Police Spokesperson and Deputy Inspector General of Police Abinarayan Kafle, key road sections affected by landslides this morning include the Kanti Lokpath at Pangdur in Bagmati Rural Municipality-3, Lalitpur; the Bhaluwang–Pyuthan road section at Khare Khola in Sarumarani Rural Municipality-4, Pyuthan; the Kanti Lokpath stretch at Bhayangdanda in Bhimphedi Rural Municipality-8, Makwanpur; and the Mid-Hill Highway at Bimire Bhanjyang in Madhya Nepal Municipality-10, Lamjung. He said, “Various highways and road sections have been completely blocked due to landslides that occurred this morning. The Araniko Highway at Kodari in Bhotekoshi-2, Sindhupalchowk remains closed and is yet to resume operation.”
Verification of actual squatters begins through digital land system
The Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation has initiated the verification of actual squatters using the Land Records Information Management System, marking a shift toward digital land governance. According to Joint Secretary and Spokesperson Ganesh Prasad Bhatta, the system is being used to determine whether individuals claiming squatter status own land elsewhere in the country, based on official government records. The verification process is currently being piloted within the Kathmandu Valley under the direction of the Ministry of Urban Development, with plans to expand nationwide in phases. Bhatta stated that the process is designed to be transparent, efficient and cost-effective, relying on digital tools and established legal procedures. Authorities believe that identifying genuine squatters will help streamline future rehabilitation and land management efforts.
Press freedom a cornerstone of democracy: President
President Ram Chandra Paudel has said a free and independent press is fundamental to democracy, urging the media to uphold truth, credibility and constitutional values. Extending his best wishes on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day (May 3, 2026), the President called on the Nepali media community to fully exercise and protect its constitutionally guaranteed rights while delivering accurate and reliable information to the public. He also conveyed his greetings to journalists and Nepali citizens at home and abroad. Emphasizing the importance of independent journalism, President Poudel said the media must play a leading role in uncovering the truth and presenting facts, with a strong focus on accuracy and credibility in society.
Nagdhunga tunnel to come into operation from mid-May
The Nagdhunga–Sisnekhola Tunnel is set to come into operation from mid-May, officials said. The 2.688-kilometre tunnel project will be brought into service after the government signed an agreement with the selected operating company. According to officials, a joint venture between a Nepali company ART and Chinese firm Yusin was chosen to operate the tunnel after proposing the lowest bid. The agreement was signed on April 29.
Protest erupts in Butwal’s Motipur against eviction drive
Residents of the Motipur area in Butwal have taken to the streets, protesting against the government’s move to clear settlements using bulldozers following instructions to vacate land in the proposed industrial zone. The protests intensified after authorities signaled preparations to remove structures in the Motipur Industrial Area, triggering anger among local residents. Demonstrators carried placards and chanted slogans such as “stop bulldozer terror,” “being a squatter is not a choice, it is compulsion,” and “solve the squatter problem,” demanding that the eviction process be halted until proper resettlement arrangements are made.
Perception toward private sector changing: FNCCI President Dhakal
President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Chandra Prasad Dhakal, has said that the perception toward the private sector in Nepal is gradually changing. Speaking at a felicitation program organized by the federation in Lalitpur on Sunday, Dhakal said the private sector was previously viewed negatively, but is now increasingly being recognized as a key contributor to the country’s development. He said even the current government, which is close to a two-thirds majority, has expressed commitment to moving forward in partnership with the private sector. Dhakal also noted that discussions had been held with leaders of the Rastriya Swatantra Party regarding the challenges faced by private businesses.
1,594 officials to be removed as government issues ordinance
A total of 1,594 politically appointed officials will be relieved of their posts following the issuance of the Special Provisions Ordinance on the Resignation of Public Officials, 2083 by President Ram Chandra Paudel on the government’s recommendation. In the communication, aviation and media sectors, several key positions will be vacated. Seven officials—including the chairperson, vice-chairperson, directors and general manager—appointed under the Nepal Airlines Corporation Act, 2019 will be removed. Similarly, three officials under the Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS) Act, 2019, and officials including the chairperson and a director under the Gorkhapatra Corporation Act, 2019, will be relieved. Three members of the Film Censorship Committee under the Film (Production, Exhibition and Distribution) Act, 2026, and officials appointed under the Communications Corporation Act, 2028 will also be removed.
Kantilokpath reopens after landslide clearance
Traffic along the Kantilokpath, which connects Hetauda and Kathmandu, resumed after the landslide at Bhimphedi Rural Municipality–8, Bharengdanda was cleared. According to the District Police Office, the obstruction caused by last night’s landslide was removed and two-way traffic was restored from the afternoon. Spokesperson for the District Police Office, Deputy Superintendent of Police Pushkar Bogati, said that all types of vehicles are now operating regularly along key routes in the district, including the Tribhuvan Highway, the East–West Mahendra Highway, and the Bhimphedi–Kulekhani road.
Gold prices fall, silver rises in local market
Gold prices declined in the domestic market on Sunday, while silver recorded a notable increase compared to last Friday. According to the Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Federation, the price of gold dropped by Rs 1,000 per tola, reaching Rs 295,100. In contrast, silver prices rose by Rs 65 per tola to Rs 5,010. Last Friday, gold was traded at Rs 296,100 per tola, while silver stood at Rs 4,945 per tola.
Govt calls on squatters left out of relocation process to come forward
The government has urged citizens who were left out during the relocation process of vulnerable settlements along riverbanks to come forward and register for assistance. The Ministry of Urban Development issued a statement requesting affected individuals who were not included in the relocation drive to contact authorities at the earliest. According to the ministry, those currently stranded on the streets and in need of support are requested to register at Dasharath Stadium, which has been designated as the primary registration centre. The statement said arrangements have been made to collect digital data of genuinely landless citizens and manage them through a designated holding centre.
Prachanda calls for broader communist unity to advance socialism agenda
Nepali Communist Party (NCP) Coordinator and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has said that the goal of the revolution remains incomplete, but the journey toward socialism will now be advanced through greater unity among communist forces. Speaking at the inauguration of the Martyr Kami Budha Memorial Park in Kharsupani, Musikot Municipality–10, Dahal said that several communist groups have already come together to form the NCP, and efforts are now underway to further consolidate remaining factions. “We are striving to move forward on the journey of socialism. Various communist groups have already united to form the NCP and begin a new journey. Now we will also bring the remaining communists together,” he said.
Press freedom is backbone of democracy: Vice President
Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav has said that press freedom is essential for democracy and urged journalists to uphold truth and responsibility in the face of growing challenges from misinformation and digital platforms, while extending his best wishes on World Press Freedom Day. In his message, he noted that media is no longer limited to print and broadcast platforms, as social media has significantly accelerated access to information. However, he cautioned that algorithm-driven content can sometimes overshadow factual news and promote misleading information, posing challenges for both journalists and citizens in identifying truth, making informed decisions and ensuring responsible communication.
Free press essential for good governance and public trust: Minister Dr. Timilsina
Minister for Communications and Information Technology Dr. Bikram Timilsina has said that good governance, transparency, and public trust cannot be strengthened without a free press. In a message of best wishes issued on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, he described a free, impartial, and responsible press as the cornerstone of democracy, adding that its role is crucial in ensuring accountability in public institutions. He said the media is not merely a channel for disseminating information but a key institution that holds the political system, administration, private sector, and society at large accountable. In this context, he stressed that the media sector must also uphold high standards of responsibility alongside press freedom.
CPN-UML implements digital membership system
The CPN-UML has decided to fully digitize its party membership management system, marking a shift toward online-based organizational administration. According to Bhanubhakta Dhakal, coordinator of the party’s organization department and central secretary, the decision was discussed in detail during a membership-related meeting held at the party’s central office on Sunday. He said the proposed digital system and its implementation were presented in a demonstration meeting attended by the party vice-president, general secretary, provincial leaders, and representatives of affiliated mass organizations.
FNJ calls free press a fundamental human right
The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) organized a rally to mark World Press Freedom Day, emphasizing the importance of a free press as a fundamental human right. The rally, themed “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Safety,” began at Maitighar Mandala and concluded with a corner meeting in the New Baneshwor area. On the occasion, National Human Rights Commission member Manoj Duwadi unveiled the annual report on the status of press freedom in the country. Describing press freedom and freedom of expression as integral to human rights, he said the Commission remains committed to their protection and promotion.
Weather improvement unlikely for one week: Meteorologists
Meteorologists have said that there will be no immediate significant improvement in the prevailing weather conditions, with rain expected to continue across the country throughout the week. Officials at the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology stated that Gandaki Province is likely to be the most affected, with continuous chances of rainfall and snowfall across its Terai, hilly and mountainous regions. Heavy rain or snow is also expected in one or two places. Meteorologists further noted that even if rainfall temporarily subsides at intervals, conditions are likely to become rainy again.
Traffic enforcement drives generate Rs 565,000 in revenue
Traffic police took action against 2,111 drivers across the Kathmandu Valley in the past 24 hours for various violations, generating Rs 565,000 in government revenue. According to the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office, the highest number of violations involved failure to comply with general traffic rules, followed by speeding, drink-driving, and signal violations. Among those penalized, 109 drivers were booked for driving under the influence of intoxicants, while 184 were fined for illegal ride-sharing practices. Similarly, 103 drivers were penalized for violating traffic signals and 222 for speeding.
Ward member arrested with gun
A ward member of Kharpunath Rural Municipality-4, Humla, has been arrested on charges of illegal possession of a loaded firearm. According to police, 63-year-old Makka Bahadur Rokaya was taken into custody after a gun was recovered from his house on Saturday. Deputy Superintendent of Police Shankar Khadka said the weapon was found hidden inside the residence during a search operation. Police also recovered 12 iron rod bullets and 110 grams of gunpowder from the same location. The District Police Office, Simkot, has initiated further investigation into the case, DSP Khadka added.
Mundum trail turns into a rhododendron paradise
Various species of rhododendron are currently in full bloom along the Mundum Trail, one of Nepal’s 100 designated tourist destinations in Khotang district, drawing increasing numbers of visitors to the region. The vibrant sight of red, white and pink rhododendrons blooming across forests and grasslands along the trekking route has created a striking natural landscape that has captivated trekkers and nature lovers alike. Locals say both domestic and international tourists are visiting the area to observe the blooming rhododendrons, including red varieties such as ‘chimal and chap’, particularly around the forested areas near Tawabhanjyang in Khidima, Sakela Rural Municipality-3.
Landslide in Tuin Khola disrupts Narayangadh–Muglin traffic
Traffic movement along the Narayangadh–Muglin road section has been partially disrupted after a landslide, including falling rocks, occurred at Tuin Khola. According to police, vehicular movement has been operating in a single lane since the landslide occurred at around 5:45 am. Police Inspector Pratik Singh of the Area Police Office, Muglin, said a dozer has been requested from the Division Road Office, Bharatpur to clear the debris and restore normal traffic flow. The landslide site is located about five kilometres from Muglin towards Narayangadh.
Two arrested with Rs 2.7 million of undisclosed source
Police have arrested two individuals, including an Indian national, in possession of a total of Rs 2.7 million from undisclosed sources at Biratnagar Airport. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Kopila Chundal of the District Police Office, Mohidil Ali, 36, of Sujagunj Sindha Chanchala in Malda district, India, was apprehended on Saturday with Rs 1.598 million while preparing to board a flight to Kathmandu.
8-storey structure encroaching Dhobi Khola demolished
The government has demolished an eight-storey building constructed by encroaching on the Dhobi Khola area in Anamnagar, Kathmandu. According to authorities, the structure was built by Indra Chamling of Katunje, Bhojpur, and was identified as illegally occupying river corridor land. Following verification of the encroachment, the building has been targeted for removal as part of ongoing efforts to clear illegal constructions along riverbanks in the Kathmandu Valley.
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