Discussion of govt change again: Oli’s strength in court, Prachanda on alert

KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ and UML Chair KP Sharma Oli recently met again at the Prime Minister’s Residence in Baluwatar on Monday morning. This meeting follows their discussion just the previous day at the Prime Minister’s Office in Singha Durbar. Ganga Dahal, Prime Minister Prachanda’s personal secretary, stated that the leaders deliberated on current political matters and strategies to enhance government efficiency. Their dialogue coincided with ongoing discussions regarding power dynamics.

Recent political developments have seen increased dialogue between the Congress and the UML regarding potential collaboration. This phase began after the Maoists terminated their alliance with the Congress and aligned with the UML on March 4. Discussions between leaders from both parties have not only centered on governance but also on constitutional reforms aimed at achieving political stability.

Meanwhile, talks between Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba and Oli concluded positively, with indications of agreement on key issues related to government operations. Deuba, during his recent visit to Balkot with his wife Arzu Rana Deuba, proposed cooperation with UML Chair Oli. Although internal party discussions on forming a new alliance are ongoing, Deuba seized the opportunity presented by recent legislative activities, such as the passage of the budget and ongoing debates over electoral system reforms, to propose cooperation to Oli.

Deuba has expressed readiness to cede the leadership of the government to the UML, with discussions ongoing on this proposal. However, Oli has not yet accepted the Congress’s offer of cooperation, citing concerns over the current government’s functioning and pressure from within the UML ranks.

In response to these developments, Prime Minister Prachanda has taken proactive steps to engage close aides in discussions to mitigate potential shifts in power dynamics. His recent meeting with UML Chair Oli and RSP President Lamichhane is seen as part of these efforts to maintain stability amidst evolving political scenarios.

Currently, the focus remains on the Truth Verification Bill, a pivotal issue in the political landscape. Recent discussions involving Prachanda, Deuba, and Oli have centered on advancing this legislation, reflecting shared concerns between Congress and UML on certain aspects of the bill.

The recent meeting between Deuba and Oli signals a potential reconfiguration of political alliances, indicating a fluid and evolving political environment.