KP Sharma Oli, Chairman of the Nepal Communist Party (UML), is set to be appointed as the new Prime Minister with the backing of two major political parties in the House of Representatives.
The move follows the failure of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ to secure a vote of confidence in the House of Representatives on Friday, July 12. Consequently, the process of forming a new government has already commenced.
After losing the vote of confidence, the Nepali Congress and UML jointly submitted a proposal to the President, recommending Oli for the Prime Minister’s position.
According to the agreement reached on July 1, Oli will be appointed as Prime Minister with the support of the Congress. President Ramchandra Paudel has given two or more parties in the House of Representatives until 5:00 PM on Sunday to submit their claims for the Prime Ministership under Article 76 (2) of the Constitution of Nepal. Leaders assert that Oli is the only viable candidate, ensuring his appointment today.
Following the President’s notification for the appointment of the new Prime Minister, the two parties quickly submitted their claims, nominating Oli for the role.
Leaders have indicated that Oli, who will be assuming the Prime Ministerial position for the fourth time, will be sworn in immediately after his appointment by President Paudel on Sunday.
UML chief whip Mahesh Bartaula stated that preparations are underway for Oli to take the oath of office and confidentiality by Monday. In the initial phase, the Congress and UML are working to form a small cabinet.
Oli previously served as Prime Minister in 2015, 2017, and 2021.
The Congress has decided to select ministers based on regional balance and inclusiveness. Congress President Deuba plans to send ministers to the government under the leadership of Prakashman Singh. Although other UML ministers have not been finalized, Oli has prepared to appoint Bishnu Prasad Paudel as the Finance Minister.
The Congress and UML have agreed that the UML will receive eight ministries, including the Prime Minister’s office, while the Congress will receive nine ministries, including the Home Ministry. Out of the 21 ministries, the remaining will be distributed to smaller parties. Discussions and negotiations for the selection of ministers are ongoing in Balkot and Budhanilkantha.
