Cabinet meeting sets paddy support price following UML’s exit from govt

KATHMANDU: After the CPN-UML’s exit from the government and the withdrawal of their support on Wednesday, the Cabinet held its first meeting on Thursday, during which several decisions were made, including setting the support price for paddy.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’s advisor, Govinda Acharya, announced the decision regarding the paddy support price.

Following the UML’s departure, Prime Minister Prachanda is preparing to seek a vote of confidence within the constitutionally mandated 30 days.

Information and Communication Technology Minister Rekha Sharma stated that during the Cabinet meeting on Thursday, the Prime Minister informed the ministers of his intent to seek a vote of confidence as per legal provisions.

Echoing the Prime Minister’s briefing, Minister Sharma said, “The government will neither resign nor wait for the full 30 days. It will face Parliament as per constitutional provisions. There is no question of resignation.” While the exact date for the vote of confidence has not been set, she indicated that it would be sought as soon as possible.

The government has fallen into a minority following the UML’s withdrawal of support.

On Wednesday, the UML’s eight ministers submitted their resignations to Prime Minister Prachanda.

The UML has cautioned the government against making long-term impactful decisions.

UML General Secretary Shankar Pokharel issued a statement reminding that there was an understanding to form a national consensus government under the leadership of KP Sharma Oli between the two major parties in Parliament, UML and Nepali Congress, urging the government to refrain from making such decisions.