KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
NC Prez Thapa calls for five-year mandate for NC–led govt
Nepali Congress (NC) President Gagan Thapa has said that the party entered the elections with a renewed vision and called on voters to give the Nepali Congress a mandate to lead the government for the next five years. Addressing a program in Dhanusha Constituency No. 4 on Friday, Thapa said the Nepali Congress has come forward with determination and a clear sense of purpose. “We have dreams in our eyes and a strong desire to deliver. The Congress will take responsibility for uniting the country,” he said. He stressed the need to bring back leaders and activists who had drifted away from the party in the past. “All friends who were once outside the party should now be welcomed back home,” Thapa said.
Nepal Embassy urges Nepalis in US to comply with American laws, warns of visa cancellations
The Embassy of Nepal in the United States has urged Nepali nationals residing in the US to strictly comply with American laws and regulations, warning that failure to do so could lead to the cancellation of visas and even green cards. Issuing a public notice, the embassy appealed to Nepalis living in the US for study, travel, employment, business, or family visits not to engage in illegal activities or submit false information to unlawfully access benefits meant for US citizens. The embassy said it has received information from US authorities that any foreign national found to be illegally or fraudulently dependent on benefits such as subsidized healthcare, housing, family assistance, or educational aid could face direct consequences on their visa or green card status, including cancellation.
EC unveils sample ballots ahead of March 5 HoR elections
The Election Commission (EC) has made public sample ballot papers for various districts and constituencies. The Commission has released sample ballots from all seven provinces. Separate ballot formats have been prepared for districts with a single constituency and for those with multiple constituencies. According to the Commission, the size of the ballot paper has been determined by the number of candidates contesting in each constituency. Constituencies with more candidates will have larger ballot papers, while those with fewer candidates will have smaller ones. Kathmandu, which has the highest number of constituencies and candidates, will therefore have comparatively larger ballot papers.
President Paudel to pay official visit to Japan from February 1
President Ram Chandra Paudel is set to embark on an official visit to Japan from February 1 to 4, leading a Nepali delegation. According to Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, President Paudel will depart for Japan on February 1 aboard a Nepal Airlines flight. The visit is being made at the invitation of the Japanese government to mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan. During the visit, President Paudel is scheduled to pay a courtesy call on Japan’s Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on February 3. On the same day, he will hold a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
UML’s main rival is Nepali Congress not RSP: Shankar Pokhrel
CPN-UML General Secretary Shankar Pokhrel has said that the party’s main competition in the upcoming House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5 will be with the Nepali Congress. Speaking at a press conference organized by Press Chautari Nepal in Kathmandu on Friday, Pokhrel said the UML sees the Nepali Congress as its principal rival in this election. He also claimed that the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is not in a competitive position, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley. “Analyses indicate that the Rastriya Swatantra Party is not in direct competition in Kathmandu,” Pokhrel said. “Its influence appears to be growing more in rural areas compared to urban centres, but not to the extent of winning elections. Therefore, the UML’s real contest is with the Nepali Congress.”
Bhim Rawal calls upcoming election crucial for safeguarding Nepal’s national existence
Dr. Bhim Rawal, leader of the Nepali Communist Party and candidate for Achham-1, has described the upcoming election as a decisive opportunity to protect the nation’s sovereignty and identity. Speaking at an interaction program in Sanfebagar, Rawal compared the significance of this election to the historic Constituent Assembly election. “Just as the Constituent Assembly election was vital for drafting the constitution, this election is equally important. We must be in a position to make our own decisions. The responsibility to strengthen the nation lies with us,” he said. Rawal alleged that attempts are being made to weaken Nepali culture, with rivers, canals, and natural resources being exploited while youth are forced to migrate abroad. “Nepalis have become impoverished even when the country is rich,” he said.
Martyrs’ Day observed nationwide today
Martyrs’ Day was observed across the country today with various commemorative programs to honor those who sacrificed their lives for the nation and its people. The day commemorates the four national martyrs, Dharmabhakta Mathema, Dasharath Chand, Gangalal Shrestha and Shukraraj Shastri, who were executed for raising their voices against the Rana regime in the struggle for democracy in Nepal. Their sacrifices played a crucial role in inspiring the movement that ultimately ended the autocratic Rana rule and paved the way for democracy. Martyrs’ Day is observed annually on January 30 to remember the contributions of martyrs from different periods who fought for democracy, freedom and social justice. To mark the occasion, Martyrs’ Week is observed, during which various programs are organized nationwide. Historically, martyr Shukraraj Shastri was executed at Pachali in Teku; Dharmabhakta Mathema was executed at Siphal; and Gangalal Shrestha and Dasharath Chand were executed at Shobhabhagawati on by the then Rana rulers.
Home Ministry shares model for inclusive electoral management
The Ministry of Home Affairs has unveiled a model aimed at making electoral management more effective through the active participation of multiple stakeholders. The initiative seeks to ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted in a free, fair, and calm environment. Under the model, district-level bodies have been issued guidelines for electoral management that involve political parties, civil society representatives, and intellectuals. The approach emphasizes strengthening coordination and collaboration down to the ward level to ensure a systematic and transparent election process.
Experts warn Nipah virus could enter Nepal from India
Following the confirmation of Nipah virus infection in India’s West Bengal, concerns have grown in Nepal over the potential risk of its spread. So far, no Nipah cases have been reported in Nepal. However, due to the open border with eastern India, the government and health authorities have gone on alert. As a precautionary measure, health surveillance has been intensified at eastern border points. Nipah is an extremely deadly and fast-spreading zoonotic virus that is transmitted from animals to humans. The World Health Organization has listed it among high-risk viruses with the potential to cause future pandemics. Experts say the fatality rate of Nipah virus infection can range from 40 to 75 percent.
President Paudel urges dedication to fulfilling martyrs’ aspirations
President Ram Chandra Paudel has urged political parties, the general public, and all concerned stakeholders to commit their hearts, words, and actions to realizing the aspirations of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Nepal’s independence and the rights of its people. In a message issued on the occasion of Martyrs’ Day, President Paudel expressed hope that the day would inspire and motivate all to honor the martyrs by working to fulfill their ideals, noting that martyrdom represents the ultimate sacrifice made for the welfare of the nation and its citizens. Paying heartfelt tribute to Shukraraj Shastri, Dharmabhakta Mathema, Dashrath Chand, Gangalal Shrestha, and all known and unknown martyrs who laid down their lives for civil liberties, democracy, and national sovereignty, the President said Martyrs’ Day is a moment to remember their extraordinary contributions.
PM Sushila Karki says martyrs’ sacrifice has brought nation to historic turning point
Prime Minister Sushila Karki has said that the courage, consciousness and determination of martyrs have brought the country to a historic turning point. In a message issued on the occasion of Martyrs’ Day on Thursday, Prime Minister Karki paid heartfelt tribute to all martyrs who sacrificed their invaluable lives for civil liberties and democracy. “Their courage, awareness and resolve have placed the nation at a historic juncture of change. May no mother’s lap be left empty again,” the message stated. She also paid respect to the brave warriors who attained martyrdom during the Gen-Z movement that rose with hopes for justice, equality, accountable governance and a brighter future.
Balen calls for good governance, corruption-free nation on Martyrs’ Day
Senior leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Balendra Shah ‘Balen’ has called for renewed commitment to good governance and a corruption-free nation, paying tribute to the sacrifices of martyrs on the occasion of Martyrs’ Day. Recalling that 85 years have passed since the brutal killing of Gangalal Shrestha, Dashrath Chand, Dharma Bhakta Mathema and Shukraraj Shastri by the then state while they were fighting against the Rana regime, Balen said the state has still failed to truly belong to the people. He remarked that despite repeated changes in political systems over the past 85 years, the nature of power has remained unchanged, forcing the Nepali people into continuous struggle. “Time and again, the Nepali people became martyrs, but the dreams of the martyrs were never fulfilled,” Balen wrote. Referring to the ‘Gen-Z’ movement that took place in September, he recalled that youths and students who had taken to the streets peacefully demanding good governance and an end to corruption also lost their lives this time.
Gold prices drop by Rs 20,500 per tola
Gold prices, which had surged by Rs 20,500 per tola on Thursday, fell by the same amount on Friday. According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, gold was traded at Rs 318,300 per tola on Friday. Silver prices have also declined. The price of silver dropped by Rs 440 per tola and is being sold at Rs 7,065 per tola.
10 people arrested with 500 kg of marijuana
Police arrested 29-year-old Rudra Bahadur Shrestha of Amchok Rural Municipality-9 from Machuwa in Hatuwagadhi Rural Municipality-9, Bhojpur, along with nine others, with marijuana. According to the police, the group was traveling in a tractor when authorities intercepted them on suspicion of illegal activity. Police recovered 43 sacks of marijuana, totaling around 500 kilograms, from the vehicle. All the accused have been taken into custody, and an investigation is underway. The tractor used in the operation is also under police control.
High-level committee formed under Foreign Minister to prepare for 12th NRNA World Conference
A high-level organizing committee has been formed under the chairmanship of the Minister for Foreign Affairs to oversee preparations for the 12th World Conference of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA). According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the committee has been constituted as per a ministerial-level decision to manage and organize the world conference scheduled to be held in Nepal from March 13 to 16. The ministry said the committee has been formed with the participation of various stakeholder institutions to ensure the conference is conducted in a successful, effective and well-organized manner. The Foreign Minister will serve as the chair of the committee. Members of the committee include a member of the National Planning Commission; the secretaries of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Finance, Industry, Commerce and Supplies, and Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs; the Chief Executive Officer of the Nepal Investment Board; joint secretaries from the Labour, Migration and Nepali Diaspora Coordination Division and the Economic Diplomacy Division; the presidents of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Nepal Industry Council and Nepal Chamber of Commerce; NRNA Presidents Dr. Badri K.C. and Mahesh Kumar Shrestha; and the Chief Executive Officer of the Non-Resident Nepali Association.
Artists step into parliamentary race, reshaping Nepal’s election narrative
In the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, the presence of figures from Nepal’s arts and creative sectors has become notably prominent. Alongside traditional political heavyweights, individuals known for their work in art, music, cinema and social activism have entered active electoral politics, turning the election into not just a political contest but also a platform for ideas, creativity and alternative visions. With slogans centered on good governance, change and nation-building, several well-known artists have filed candidacies under both the first-past-the-post and proportional representation systems. Their participation has sparked renewed debate about the role of artists in Nepali politics.
RSP candidate Amaresh Kumar Singh claims landslide victory in Sarlahi-4
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) candidate Dr. Amaresh Kumar Singh has claimed that he will secure victory in Sarlahi constituency No. 4 with the largest margin of his political career in the upcoming election. Speaking to journalists during his election campaign in the constituency, Singh said his victory in Sarlahi-4 is certain, even as Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa is also contesting from the same seat. As Thapa has been intensifying his campaign and building momentum, Singh sought to project confidence among voters, asserting that he would win by a record margin. Singh further claimed that RSP would win 160 seats on its own in the House of Representatives. He said the party is likely to secure 20 out of the 32 seats in Madhesh Province alone and emerge as the largest party under the proportional representation system as well.
Balen Shah aide Dinesh Sitaula collapses during RSP election campaign in Achham
Dinesh Sitaula, an aide to senior Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) leader Balen Shah, collapsed while taking part in the party’s election campaign in Achham on Friday morning. Sitaula, who was accompanying Shah’s campaign team in Mangalsen, the district headquarters of Achham, reportedly lost consciousness suddenly and has not yet regained consciousness. Following the incident, a Nepali Army helicopter was dispatched from Surkhet for his rescue. Achham Chief District Officer Yagya Bahadur Budha confirmed that arrangements were made to airlift Sitaula to Kathmandu for further treatment. The 43-year-old Sitaula is originally from Nuwakot. According to the local administration, Shah’s campaign team is scheduled to continue its journey towards Dailekh via the Mid-Hill Highway after Sitaula is airlifted.
29 polling stations in Khotang and Myagdi classified as highly sensitive
As the House of Representatives (HoR) elections approach on Marc 5, 29 polling stations in Khotang and Myagdi have been identified as highly sensitive due to security concerns. Authorities have taken measures to ensure a safe and orderly voting process, with security deployment and monitoring arrangements already underway in both districts. In Khotang, which has a single constituency for the House of Representatives, 136 polling stations have been established. According to Assistant Chief District Officer of Khotang, Kopila Rai, the polling stations have been categorized into three levels of sensitivity. “Under the Integrated Security Plan for the House of Representatives elections, we inspected and monitored all polling stations. Based on the monitoring report, 21 stations have been classified as highly sensitive, 64 as sensitive, and 51 as normal,” he said.
14,000 election police to be deployed in Gandaki
A total of 14,012 election police personnel will be deployed across 11 districts of Gandaki Province for the upcoming House of Representatives elections scheduled for March 5. According to the Gandaki Province Police Office, 2,024 election police will be stationed in Gorkha, 233 in Manang, 1,210 in Lamjung, 2,08 in Kaski, 1,573 in Tanahun, 1,947 in Syangja, 1,543 in Nawalpur, 266 in Mustang, 765 in Myagdi, 1,298 in Baglung, and 965 in Parbat. In addition, the Nepal Police will deploy 1,030 personnel in Gorkha, 163 in Manang, 606 in Lamjung, 957 in Kaski, 838 in Tanahun, 940 in Syangja, 818 in Nawalpur, 202 in Mustang, 411 in Myagdi, 658 in Baglung, and 439 in Parbat.
Forty injured in bus mishap on Narayangadh-Muglin road section
A bus accident occurred on the Narayangadh–Muglin road section, injuring 40 people. Among the injured, three have returned home after treatment. This morning, the bus with number plate, Lumbini Province 02-100 Kha 0460, travelling from Dang to Kathmandu, overturned on the road at Ghumaune of Bharatpur Metropolitan City-29. Superintendent of Police Govinda Puri of the District Police Office informed that other injured individuals are receiving treatment at various hospitals in the district. According to him, among the injured, 15 are being treated at Maulakalika Hospital, Bharatpur, 17 at Old Medical College, Bharatpur, and five at Chitwan Medical College, Bharatpur.
HoR elections: NIC calls for dissemination of true and objective news
The National Information Commission (NIC) has urged one and all to disseminate truthful and factual news related to the upcoming election to the Member of the House of Representatives. The Commission has urging everyone to be responsible in the flow of information to ensure that the House of Representatives election on March 5 is free, fair and fear-free. NIC Commissioner and spokesperson Gagan Bista said that misleading, false and biased information circulated during the election can seriously affect the democratic process and that the flow of information should be based on truth and reality. Spokesperson Bista stated that stakeholders must make public electoral information on time and in a way that everyone can understand.
Kagbeni–Muktinath road reopens after snowfall disruption
The Kagbeni–Muktinath road section, which had been obstructed since Wednesday due to heavy snowfall, has reopened from Friday morning. The road was brought back into operation through the initiative of the District Administration Office and Varagung Muktikshetra Rural Municipality. The 12-kilometre blacktopped road leading to Muktinath had been completely blocked following heavy snowfall on Tuesday night. In response, excavators from the Muktinath–Jomsom–Korala Road Project were mobilised from Thursday afternoon at the request of the district administration and the rural municipality. To clear the snow and resume traffic, a joint security team comprising the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force and Nepal Police, led by Chief District Officer Ajita Sharma, was deployed. Local elected representatives, including Rural Municipality Vice-chairperson Diki Gurung and Ward Chairperson Karmaghyacho Gurung, were also actively involved in the operation.
Over 400,000 people in Sarlahi to receive anti-elephantiasis medication
More than 400,000 people across 12 local levels in Sarlahi district will be administered preventive medication against elephantiasis following a rise in infections in the area. The District Health Office, Sarlahi, plans to provide anti-elephantiasis drugs to 430,941 people—around 80 percent of the population—in the affected local levels. A special campaign has been launched after lymphatic filariasis was found to be spreading rapidly in several areas of the district. The infection was detected during tests conducted in October by the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), Teku, Kathmandu, in coordination with the World Health Organization. The survey divided the district’s 20 local units into two groups for testing.
One shot dead in Siraha
One person was shot dead in Siraha on Friday afternoon. The victim has been identified as 41-year-old Premnath Yadav of Siraha Municipality-1. He was shot while working in his field in Siraha Municipality-7. A police team led by Superintendent of Police (SP) Vasudev Pathak from the District Police Office, Siraha, rushed to the scene after receiving information about the shooting. SP Pathak said Yadav had already died by the time police arrived. The incident occurred about one kilometer north of the Hulaki Highway. The shooter has not yet been identified. Police have launched an investigation and deployed teams to search for the suspect, SP Pathak added.
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