In Sudurpashchim Province, preparations for a government change between the Nepali Congress and the UML have accelerated. Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah has urged swift decisions, holding discussions with UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli and Party President Gagan Kumar Thapa. Both Chairman Oli and President Thapa have indicated ongoing talks concerning the possibility of a three-party coalition, government change, and cabinet reshuffling. Due to disputes over the power-sharing equation between Congress and UML in Sudurpashchim, Chief Minister Shah’s position remains uncertain, pending the party leadership’s decision.
The discussion of a provincial government change has created significant waves in Sudurpashchim. Leaders from Nepali Congress and CPN UML are intensifying groundwork for a leadership transition in the provincial government. Keeping the old power-sharing formula, both parties have initiated talks on government change or reconstruction. In this context, Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah traveled to Kathmandu and met Chairman KP Sharma Oli and Party President Gagan Kumar Thapa at Gundu in Bhaktapur.
Shah requested a prompt decision regarding the provincial government. According to sources, “The Chief Minister has held separate conversations with Chairman Oli and President Thapa. His demand is for an expedited resolution on the province’s government issue,” a close source to Shah said. Chairman Oli mentioned that discussions are underway to include other factions of the party in the provincial government along with Shah, while President Thapa confirmed ongoing talks among all involved parties.
However, some UML leaders have argued that since Chairman Oli is reportedly dissatisfied with Chief Minister Himmat Kari Karki, the UML might consider leaving Congress. “Congress has already proposed taking over Koshi Province and leaving Sudurpashchim to UML, but our Chairman has not made any decisions yet,” one leader disclosed. Nevertheless, signs indicate that after mutual consultations, a decision may be reached within two to three days.
