In a significant political development, Khagaraj Adhikari, the parliamentary party leader of CPN-UML, has been officially sworn in as the Chief Minister of Gandaki Province. This move comes after Adhikari staked his claim to the position, backed by a coalition of 31 lawmakers, marking a significant shift in the province’s political landscape.
The support for Adhikari’s appointment came from a diverse group of lawmakers, including 22 from CPN-UML, eight from the Maoist Center (including the Speaker), and Independent lawmaker Deepak Manange. This coalition underscores a collaborative effort to form a stable government in the region.
The appointment was made by Province Chief Dilli Raj Bhatta following Article 168(2) of the Constitution of Nepal, which empowers the provincial head to appoint the Chief Minister. Adhikari’s selection reflects a mandate from the legislative body and indicates a consensus among the political factions within the provincial assembly.
The provincial assembly consists of 60 members, with Nepali Congress holding 27 seats, and two belonging to the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP). Despite not securing a majority, Adhikari’s coalition managed to garner enough support to secure his appointment, showcasing a strategic maneuver in the realm of provincial politics.
