Former Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has staked his claim to lead a new majority government under Article 76 (2) of the constitution, with the support of 165 lawmakers including members from his party and the Nepali Congress. Despite backing from fringe parties, Oli's claim is based solely on the support of the UML and Congress members. Nepal President Ramchandra Paudel has called upon members of the House of Representatives to stake their claim for the prime ministerial post, in accordance with Article 76 (2) of the constitution. This comes after Puspa Kamal Dahal failed to secure a vote of confidence during a floor test in the House of Representatives.
Nepal's Political Impasse: Oli and Dahal Vie for Premiership
Nepal's political landscape has entered a state of flux following the recent ouster of Prime Minister Puspa Kamal Dahal, also known as Prachanda, through a parliament vote of no confidence. President Ramchandra Paudel has now called upon lawmakers to stake their claim for the premiership under Article 76 (2) of the constitution, while former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has emerged as a potential frontrunner.
Background:
In late 2022, a coalition government led by Prachanda was formed with the support of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre), Oli's Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) (UML), and other smaller parties. However, the coalition faced internal rifts, including disagreements over the appointment of the finance minister.
On January 10, 2023, Prachanda lost a vote of confidence in parliament, paving the way for the formation of a new government.
Oli's Claim:
Oli has claimed the support of 165 lawmakers, including members of his UML party and the Nepali Congress (NC). Despite backing from fringe parties, Oli's claim is primarily based on the support of the UML and NC, which together hold 151 seats in the House of Representatives.
Dahal's Response:
Prachanda has denounced Oli's claim as "unconstitutional" and has urged his supporters to back other candidates. He has also suggested that the UML may have used "inducements and threats" to secure support.
FAQs:
1. Who is KP Sharma Oli?
KP Sharma Oli is a Nepalese politician who has served as Prime Minister of Nepal twice, from 2015 to 2016 and from 2018 to 2021. He is the chairperson of the UML, which is the largest party in parliament.
2. Who is Puspa Kamal Dahal?
Puspa Kamal Dahal is a Nepalese politician who has served as Prime Minister of Nepal three times, most recently from 2022 to 2023. He is the chairperson of the Maoist Centre, which is the second-largest party in parliament.
3. What is Article 76 (2) of the Nepalese constitution?
Article 76 (2) of the Nepalese constitution states that if the Prime Minister loses a vote of confidence, the President shall appoint a new Prime Minister upon the recommendation of a majority of the House of Representatives.
4. What is the current political situation in Nepal?
The current political situation in Nepal is uncertain, with Oli and Dahal vying for the premiership. The President has called for lawmakers to stake their claim under Article 76 (2), and it is unclear who will ultimately form the government.
5. What are the potential implications of a prolonged political impasse?
A prolonged political impasse in Nepal could have negative implications for the country, including economic instability, delays in important policy decisions, and increased political polarization.
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