UML questions PM’s absence from Parliament, calls it constitutional violation
He further argued that the government is operating in a manner inconsistent with Nepal’s constitutional framework and parliamentary traditions.
KATHMANDU: The CPN-UML has raised serious questions over Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s continued absence from Parliament, accusing him of avoiding legislative accountability and showing disregard toward democratic norms.
During Tuesday’s session of the House of Representatives, UML Chief Whip Ain Bahadur Mahara alleged that the Prime Minister has been distancing himself from Parliament despite leading a government with a strong public mandate. He questioned why the head of government appears “afraid of Parliament” and accused him of attempting to bypass legislative scrutiny.
“Why is a government with such a mandate afraid of Parliament? Why is there an attempt to evade the legislature?” Mahara asked, criticizing what he described as growing irresponsibility from the executive branch.
He further argued that the government is operating in a manner inconsistent with Nepal’s constitutional framework and parliamentary traditions. According to him, the current administration is undermining democratic accountability by avoiding direct engagement with lawmakers.
Mahara specifically cited provisions under Article 76(10) and Article 81 of the Constitution of Nepal, stating that these articles clearly require the Prime Minister and ministers to remain answerable to Parliament. He claimed that the Prime Minister has yet to appear in Parliament to respond to pressing national issues.
The UML chief whip also accused the government of creating unnecessary distance between the executive and the President’s Office, alleging attempts to sideline and disrespect constitutional institutions.
He added that growing speculation around the Prime Minister’s absence during Republic Day address ceremonies has further intensified concerns about the government’s conduct.
Opposition parties have demanded that Prime Minister Shah appear in Parliament immediately and provide clear explanations on governance, constitutional obligations, and current national issues.
