In a major political development, Nepal's Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' lost a vote of confidence in Parliament after the main opposition party withdrew its support for his government. The motion received 194 votes against it, far surpassing the 138 votes needed for a majority. With the support of the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML, the largest parties in the House, former prime minister K P Sharma Oli is now set to become the next prime minister, ending Prachanda's short stint in office. Follow our newsletter to get the latest updates on this developing story.
Nepal's Prachanda Loses Confidence Vote, Oli Set to Return as PM
In a major political development, Nepal's Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' lost a vote of confidence in Parliament on Monday, May 29, 2023. The motion received 194 votes against it, far surpassing the 138 votes needed for a majority.
Background
Prachanda, a former Maoist rebel leader, became Prime Minister in December 2022 after a coalition government was formed with the support of several parties, including the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML. However, the coalition faced challenges from the beginning, with several parties expressing reservations about Prachanda's policies.
The main opposition party, the Nepali Congress, withdrew its support for the government last week, citing dissatisfaction with Prachanda's performance. This left the government with only 165 out of 275 seats in Parliament, making it vulnerable to a vote of no confidence.
Vote of Confidence
The vote of confidence was held on Monday, with 251 members of Parliament casting their votes. The motion against Prachanda received 194 votes, while 53 voted in favor of him. Two members were absent.
Next Steps
With the defeat of Prachanda, the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML are set to form a new government. Former prime minister K P Sharma Oli, who leads the CPN-UML, is expected to become the next Prime Minister.
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