KATHMANDU: Last week witnessed significant developments in Nepal.
The by-elections in Ilam-2 and Bajhang, alongside the ensuing vote counting and results, sparked intriguing debates.
Another focal point was the assessment of the two-day Nepal Investment Summit organized by the government. Opinions diverged, sparking yet another round of debate.
The escalating pollution in Kathmandu, exacerbated by fires across the nation, underscored pressing health challenges, prompting widespread discussion last week.
Meanwhile, contempt of court cases against two journalists from Sidhakura Online, coupled with internet interruptions, remained a constant concern.
Discussions ranged from cricket to the uninterrupted production of new movies.
From the disturbing incident of a girl student being shot in Jhapa to the broader challenges to peace and security, last week bore witness to unforgettable events.
Questions arose over potential corruption hidden in the government’s ordinance amending eight laws, ostensibly to facilitate foreign investment, warranting a robust debate.
On the political front, the establishment of an investigation committee on cooperatives and the persistent instability in provincial governance mirrored familiar patterns, indicating ongoing challenges.
As the government grapples with budget deliberations, internal discontent within Madhav Nepal’s faction and the Nagarik Unmukti Party surfaced last week, impacting the Sudurpaschim Provincial Assembly.
Meanwhile, the Koshi Province remained mired in confusion, with speculation looming over the potential collapse of alliances at the center. Amid these complexities, political uncertainty persists.
By-elections held on April 27 in Ilam and Bajhang brought notable victories for the CPN-UML.
In Ilam, Suhang Nemwang secured the seat in the House of Representatives, succeeding his late father Subash Nemwang.
The Nepali Congress trailed in second place, with independent candidate Dakendra Limbu making significant strides in third place.
The outcome in Ilam signalled the emergence of identityist forces in the Koshi Province, with preparations underway for upcoming elections.
UML has anticipated further electoral victories, while the Maoist Center faltered in both Ilam and Bajhang.
Simultaneously, amidst the by-election tallying, Kathmandu hosted an investment conference last week.
While the government touted its productivity, doubts linger among independent analysts regarding the implementation of commitments.
A comprehensive assessment of the conference’s impacts, both positive and negative, awaits scrutiny.
Ahead of the investment conference, the government grappled with domestic challenges.
Notably, ordinances were issued permitting Giribandhu Tea State and others to exceed land sale limits, alongside discussions regarding easing bank acquisition of non-banking assets through real estate auctions.
Questions arose over potential corruption hidden in the government’s ordinance amending eight laws, ostensibly to facilitate foreign investment, warranting a robust debate.
Meanwhile, Kathmandu faced a critical air pollution crisis last week, correlating with a surge in eye diseases attributed to heightened pollution levels.
Nationwide fires exacerbated pollution, resulting in injuries and fatalities during firefighting efforts.
Experts emphasized caution to mitigate pollution risks.
According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, fatalities and injuries occurred in recent fires across the country, underscoring the urgency of fire prevention measures.
Social media divided opinions, with some faulting the government and others accusing service providers of tax evasion, urging punitive measures against those impeding essential services.
Journalism also took center stage last week, coinciding with World Press Freedom Day and the commencement of the Federation of Nepali Journalists General Assembly.
Contempt of court cases against journalists Yuvraj Kandel and Nabin Dhungana, concerning material broadcast by Sidhakura.com, evoke widespread debate and agitation within Nepal’s media and judiciary spheres, igniting discourse across social media platforms.
The controversy surrounding Sidhakura takes a twist as Rabi Lamichhane assumed investigative duties.
The Federation of Nepali Journalists contested the Supreme Court’s directive to remove Sidhakura’s content, contrasting with instructions from the Press Council.
The Supreme Court interrogated Kandel and Dhungana on Thursday and Friday last week, summoning Yuvraj Timsina, alleged audio recorder from Laltipura Godavari, for testimony.
Inspector General of Police Basanta Kunwar received a 20-day mandate to verify audio authenticity and submit findings.
Last week’s Thursday witnessed abrupt internet cessation in Nepal.
While speculation suggested non-payment to India’s Airtel, clarity eludes.
Government and service providers engaged in blame games, sparking public ire and calls for accountability.
Social media divided opinions, with some faulting the government and others accusing service providers of tax evasion, urging punitive measures against those impeding essential services.
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