CPN-UML ministers yet to resign from Prachanda-led govt amid new coalition formation

KATHMANDU: Despite the formation of a new power coalition, the CPN-UML has not yet withdrawn its ministers from the government led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’.

The UML had planned to call back its ministers on Tuesday.

However, the ministers, who were prepared to resign at the last moment, did not submit their resignations.

The UML Secretariat meeting did not withdraw its support for the government either. Instead, they have urged their ministers to resign by today.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Prachanda is preparing to face the parliament and does not intend to resign.

The Maoist Central Office meeting has decided to face the parliament. As long as the UML does not withdraw its support, there appears to be no pressure on the Prime Minister.

There is a possibility that the UML might make further decisions on this matter by the evening.

For this, the UML is seeking legal advice on the implications if the Prime Minister does not resign or if a government can be formed directly under Article 76 (3) of the Constitution.

The UML sees a risk of the Nepali Congress forming the government if a situation arises for the largest party to lead. This concern led the UML not to withdraw its support in the Secretariat meeting on Tuesday.

Legal experts have presented various interpretations regarding this matter. The UML also fears that Prime Minister Prachanda might make some crucial decisions if they withdraw their ministers from the government.

An agreement has been reached for UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli to become Prime Minister in collaboration with the Nepali Congress.

Currently, there are eight UML ministers in Prachanda’s government.

The Congress has called a parliamentary party meeting today to approve the agreement with the UML.

The future path of the UML-Congress alliance will be determined after the Congress meeting.