The Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) has decided not to participate in the election for the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. The ruling coalition, including the Rashtriya Swatantra Party (Raswapa), has chosen to support Rubi Kumari Thakur of the Labour Culture Party. Raswapa, along with the Congress and the Communist Party of Nepal, has decided to vote in favor of Rubi Kumari Thakur. March 27, Kathmandu.
CPN-UML announced its decision to abstain from the upcoming election for the Deputy Speaker. After Raswapa, a ruling party with nearly a two-thirds majority, decided to back Rubi Kumari Thakur of the Labour Culture Party, UML resolved to cast a ‘no vote’ in the election scheduled for today. Alongside Raswapa and the Labour Culture Party, the Congress and the Communist Party of Nepal have also agreed to support Thakur.
The election for the Deputy Speaker post is contested between Saraswati Lama of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) and Rubi Kumari Thakur of the Labour Culture Party.
Kathmandu, April 10 – In the past two weeks, floods caused by heavy rainfall in Afghanistan have impacted tens of thousands of people. According to United Nations data, from March 26 to April 6, Afghanistan experienced extremely heavy rainfall. The resulting floods have submerged hundreds of villages and affected more than 73,000 individuals. Over 9,000 homes have been damaged by the floods. Additionally, agricultural crops and land have been completely destroyed, posing a serious threat to food security in the affected regions.
Image caption, Names like Mohan Acharya, Bhishmaraj Aangdembe, Arjun Narasingh KC, and Basna Thapa are also being discussed for the parliamentary party leader positionArticle Information
The Nepali Congress, the second largest and main opposition party in parliament, has yet to select its parliamentary party leader nearly a month after the final election results were announced.
Analysts note that the party has been indecisive in selecting the party leader, especially after prominent party figures including party chair Gagan Thapa, who was the designated prime ministerial candidate before the election, were defeated in the House of Representatives election.
The selection of the Nepali Congress’s parliamentary party leader is also significant for the government. The leader of the main opposition party in the House of Representatives is a member of the Constitutional Council tasked with recommending appointments to key constitutional positions, such as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and Chief Election Commissioner.
According to the constitution, the Constitutional Council consists of the Prime Minister as chairperson, the Chief Justice, the Speaker, the Chairperson of the National Assembly, the leader of the opposition in the House of Representatives, and the Deputy Speaker ex-officio members.
Following the appointment of the Deputy Speaker from the House of Representatives last Friday, only the leader of the opposition remains to be selected as a member of this council.
When Will Congress Select Its Leader?
Image source, Nepal Photo Library
Leaders of the Nepali Congress indicate that the party is preparing to select the parliamentary party leader with the arrival of the new year.
Party spokesperson Devaraj Chalise claims that due to ongoing provincial-level programs, the party’s focus has not yet fully shifted to selecting the parliamentary party leader.
“We have tasked interested colleagues within parliament to strive for consensus and discussions are underway among them. We aim to select the leader by consensus as much as possible,” Chalise said.
“If consensus is not achievable, then according to democratic procedures, an election can also be held.”
Bhishmaraj Aangdembe and Mohan Acharya, aspirants for the Congress party leader position, have said discussions towards consensus are ongoing.
According to spokesperson Chalise, the party plans to advance the leader selection process within a few days.
“We will complete this process within two to four days,” he added.
What Are the Criteria to Become the Leader of Congress Parliamentary Party?
The Nepali Congress won 38 seats in the House of Representatives, comprising 18 directly elected members and 20 proportional representation members.
According to spokesperson Chalise, the party will not discriminate between members elected through direct elections and proportional representation when selecting the parliamentary party leader.
“Once members become parliamentarians, the constitution makes them equal at the legislative level, so division or discrimination does not make political sense. The most important aspect is the selection of members,” he added.
He also clarified that there are no criteria based on affinity to any faction or group within the party for selection.
Old Styles Persist in the Functioning of the New Congress?
Image source, Nepal Photo Library
Political analyst Puranjan Acharya, who follows the internal politics of Congress, has said that despite claims of generational change in the party through the special general convention, old practices still prevail within the Congress.
“Even though it is referred to as Congress 2.0, the party’s culture remains the same,” Acharya said.
“There is still some power struggle at the leadership level between giving the position to the new generation or the old guard.”
However, party spokesperson Chalise denied any disputes or power struggles over leader selection within the party.
“Our program is 2.0, which means modernizing and advancing the Congress with the times and in new ways. Although there has been some delay in selecting the parliamentary party leader, it does not diminish its significance.”
“Within this 2.0 framework, we are advancing the party from the grassroots to the provincial level,” he added.
Analysts further speculate that the new committee led by Gagan Thapa, which removed the old leadership in the special general convention, might be taking a careful approach in leader selection considering internal power struggles.
“Rastriya Swatantra Party, which formed the government with a huge popular mandate in opposition, needs to be taught parliamentary roles by a party like Congress, even if smaller in size,” Acharya said.
A writ challenging the legitimacy of the special general convention organized after the election is currently under Supreme Court consideration in response to dissatisfaction from a faction.
Leaders removed in the special general convention have been conducting parallel activities under the leadership of Purna Bahadur Khadka.
After Khadka issued a statement claiming himself as the party’s ‘acting chairperson,’ party leaders have warned that those involved in parallel activities could face disciplinary action.
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Gyanendra Shahi, leader of the National Democratic Party’s parliamentary faction, stated that the deputy speaker position is not their priority. The election for the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives is underway, with Saraswati Lama from the National Democratic Party and Ruby Thakur from the Labor Culture Party as candidates. Shahi clarified that he filed his candidacy after being proposed by the National Democratic Socialist Party and emphasized that the deputy speaker role is not their main focus.
On March 10, Kathmandu — Speaking at the House of Representatives meeting, Shahi said, “The deputy speaker position was never and is still not our priority.” He added that he accepted the candidacy only after receiving a proposal from the largest party in parliament. Notably, Shahi is the proposer for Lama’s candidacy.
March 11, Kathmandu – The Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology has launched a new initiative to address incidents of harassment and abuse faced by students from schools to universities. Minister Sasmita Pokharel has made a public appeal, urging students who have experienced any form of abuse to directly register their complaints with the ministry. Through social media, she has asked students enrolled in schools and universities to report any abuse they have faced or are currently facing.
Minister Pokharel emphasized that the ministry aims to create a safe educational environment and will promptly investigate and take action on complaints received. She further stated that the ministry has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment and exploitation occurring within educational institutions. Students can file their complaints using an online form provided by the ministry.
When submitting a complaint, students are required to include: 1. The name of the educational institution where they are studying; 2. The nature of the abuse; and 3. Detailed description of the incident. This mechanism allows students to report issues related to ethnic and gender discrimination, verbal or physical abuse, sexual violence, psychological pressure, bullying, and online harassment, among other concerns.
Kathmandu, March 11 – President Ram Chandra Paudel expressed confidence that the government would work according to the aspirations of the youth.
He made these remarks while addressing the joint session of the Federal Parliament on Friday.
President Paudel stated, “The main priority today is to reform the education system to produce skilled human resources tailored to market demand and create new employment opportunities so that young people who have migrated abroad will feel motivated to live and thrive in their own country and villages. The government pays special attention to this.”
Reflecting on the nation’s progress following the people’s movement for a republic, he thanked all those who contributed to holding timely elections under the interim government.
With a new mandate obtained through the elections, he emphasized the necessity of enacting laws reflecting the people’s wishes and underscored the importance of delivering justice swiftly and effectively through the judiciary.
Highlighting the significance of the past ten years of constitutional implementation experience, he added, “There is still more work to be done in line with the spirit and essence of the constitution.”
Ram Chandra Paudel
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Melania Trump has categorically denied any connection with Jeffrey Epstein during a press conference held at the White House. She stated that she met Epstein only once in 2000 and that her communication with Epstein’s associate was limited to polite, ordinary exchanges. Melania has called for a public congressional hearing for Epstein’s victims, a request supported by opposition lawmakers. Kathmandu, April 10.
In an unexpected appearance on Thursday at the White House, Melania Trump condemned any alleged ties to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Long absent from the spotlight, her sudden presence and stern message sent ripples through American politics. Speaking with journalists, she asserted that the allegations of a relationship with Epstein were entirely false and warned against the spread of such misinformation.
Dismissing online rumors that Epstein introduced her to Donald Trump as a ‘malicious attempt’ to damage her reputation, she emphasized, “I have never participated in any of Epstein’s activities nor had any knowledge of his abuse toward victims.” She maintained that her only meeting with Epstein took place once in 2000, and that her email correspondence with Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell was purely courteous and superficial.
In a bold move, Melania urged for a public hearing before the U.S. Congress for victims of Epstein’s sex trafficking. She stated, ‘Every woman should have the opportunity to share her story publicly, with their statements permanently recorded in the congressional record. Only then will the truth come to light.’ Democratic Representative Robert Garcia endorsed Melania’s proposal and urged the chairman of the House Oversight Committee to schedule such hearings.
Melania’s announcement has caused some uncertainty within the White House administration. President Donald Trump stated he was not informed about this matter beforehand, while Melania’s spokesperson indicated that although the President was aware, the details remained unclear. Epstein’s victims have responded with mixed feelings. Victim Lisa Phillips described it as a ‘courageous step,’ while others suspected it might be a mere ‘political stunt.’ The family of Virginia Giuffre commented that compelling victims to relive their testimonies could be more about evading responsibility than seeking justice. Melania Trump has previously pursued defamation lawsuits against writer Michael Wolff and certain media outlets that linked her to Epstein. Recently, numerous prominent business figures resigned due to Epstein connections, coinciding with Melania’s statement.
The 14th National Rugby Sevens for both men and women will be held on Chaitra 28 and 29 at Kathmandu’s Dashrath Rangashala. Seven teams from both men’s and women’s categories will participate in the competition. The event will serve as a platform to select the national team for upcoming international tournaments. (Chaitra 27, Kathmandu)
The preparations for the National Rugby Sevens Championship have been completed by the Nepal Rugby Association, which announced this during a press conference on Friday. For the men’s division, teams from APF Club, Tribhuvan Army Club, Karnali Province, Bagmati Province, Madhesh Province, Lumbini Province, and Gandaki Province will compete. On the women’s side, teams from APF Club, Tribhuvan Army Club, Karnali Province, Bagmati Province, Madhesh Province, Sudurpashchim Province, and Koshi Province will participate.
The teams will be divided into two pools of seven each and will compete in a league-cum-knockout format. The estimated total expenditure for the tournament is NPR 3 million, and accident insurance worth NPR 125,000 has been arranged for the players. Both the men’s and women’s champion teams will receive trophies and a prize of NPR 50,000 each, while the runners-up will be awarded NPR 30,000. Additionally, the best male and female players will be honored with NPR 5,000 each. According to the association, the tournament will be instrumental in selecting players for the upcoming international events, including the 20th Asian Games in Japan and the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy to be held in Taiwan.
The new song ‘Nimto Supari’ from the film ‘Paralko Aago,’ directed by Laxman Sunar, has been released on YouTube. The track features vocals by Satya and Melina Rai, lyrics penned by Surendra Rana, and dance choreography by Ramji Lamichhane. The film, starring actors Kishor Bhandari and Jack Shrestha among others, is set to premiere from 11th Baisakh.
Kathmandu – The latest song ‘Nimto Supari’ included in Laxman Sunar’s film ‘Paralko Aago’ was released via YouTube. With music composed by Satya, the vocals are by Satya and Melina Rai. The lyrics were crafted by Surendra Rana. The song showcases the pairing of Prakash Saput and Suhana Thapa, while Sugat Malla and Sirjana Adhikari also appear as another duo. Their chemistry adds to the song’s appeal.
Shot in a rural setting, the song’s dance direction was handled by Ramji Lamichhane. Previously, the film’s track ‘Udi Jaun Bhane, Ma Pankhi Hoina’ had garnered significant attention among audiences. Inspired by Guru Prasad Mainali’s book ‘Paralko Aago,’ the movie stars Kishor Bhandari, Jack Shrestha, Sarita Bhandari, Renu Nyaupane, and Manjil Baniya. Produced under the banner of Hariom Cine Makers Pvt. Ltd. by Sushil Pokharel, ‘Paralko Aago’ is scheduled for release starting 11th Baisakh.
President Dhanishwar Gautam of the Nepal Construction Industry Council in Gulmi reported that the costs of petroleum products, bitumen, cement, iron materials, and labor have surged by 30 to 36 percent. Construction professionals have called on the government to immediately address this price increase as a ‘price escalation’ and to eliminate unnecessary administrative pressures. They warn that the rising costs and supply instability in the construction sector are directly affecting project progress and could hinder the national development process. (March 27, Gulmi)
The abnormal price increases of essential materials across development and construction projects nationwide have impacted the overall construction sector. According to Gautam, persistent rises in the costs of petroleum products, bitumen, cement, iron materials, transportation, and labor have driven construction expenses up by an average of 30 to 36 percent. Businesspersons indicate that the instability in supply and external factors have had a direct adverse effect on the progress of most projects under these circumstances.
They emphasized that this issue is not limited to a single project or company, but a shared nationwide challenge. Despite the sensitive situation, various agencies have continued applying unnecessary administrative pressure, repeatedly requesting clarifications, making inquiries, and causing mental stress. Business leaders have highlighted these concerns as significant. They argue that the decision-making process must adopt transparency and fairness, asserting that informal and unethical expectations undermine good governance.
Construction industry professionals demand that the government immediately address the price increases by acknowledging them as ‘price escalation,’ recognize external and uncontrollable conditions as ‘force majeure’ or ‘exceptional conditions,’ end unwarranted pressures on businesses, and conduct all procedures transparently and fairly. In a press release, President Gautam emphasized that disregarding the true state of the construction sector will further impact projects. He warned that obstacles to national development could arise, potentially forcing the industry to take formal actions with relevant authorities.
A ride-sharing driver has been arrested on charges of verbally abusing female passengers and recording a video in front of Bhagwati Bahal Temple in Naxal. The Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office team apprehended the driver involved in the incident. On Chaitra 27, in Kathmandu, the driver allegedly used offensive language towards female passengers while filming them. According to police, the rider recorded a video of the women on his motorcycle while verbally abusing them and later posted it on social media. The Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office has taken the ride-sharing driver into custody in connection with this case.
March 27, Kathmandu: Gaurikumari Yadav and Ramji Yadav, who are set to become ministers on Friday, are scheduled to take their oaths of office today. Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) is planning to expand the cabinet this Friday. He has already recommended to President Ram Chandra Paudel the appointment of Ramji Yadav as the Minister of Labor and Gaurikumari Yadav as the Minister of Industry. According to the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, the swearing-in ceremony for both ministers will also take place today. However, the President’s Office has indicated that the exact timing of the oath-taking has not yet been finalized.
Earlier, Dipak Sah, who was handling the responsibilities of the Ministry of Labor until yesterday, was relieved from the position by Prime Minister Shah. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister himself has been managing the Ministry of Industry. Ramji Yadav is an elected Member of Parliament representing Saptari Constituency No. 2, while Gaurikumari Yadav represents Mahottari Constituency No. 4.
Prime Minister Balen Shah is en route to attend the parliamentary party meeting. The meeting has commenced at the Rastriya Swatantra Party’s parliamentary party office located in Singh Durbar. According to RSWPA, the agenda includes discussions on today’s deputy speaker election and various other topics. Both Prime Minister Balen Shah and party chairman Ravi Lamichhane are participating in the meeting. Kathmandu, 27 Chaitra – The parliamentary party meeting of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSWPA) has started. The meeting is taking place at the RSWPA parliamentary party office in Singh Durbar. As per the party, the discussion will focus on the upcoming deputy speaker election and other diverse issues. Leaders including Prime Minister Balen Shah and party chairman Ravi Lamichhane have joined the meeting. The candidates for deputy speaker are Rubikumarī Thakur from the Labour Culture Party and Saraswati Lama from the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP). On Thursday, 25-year-old Thakur officially registered her candidacy with the support of RSWPA. The RSWPA holds nearly a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives; with their backing, Thakur’s election as deputy speaker is virtually assured.
Chief of Army Staff General Ashok Raj Gajurel presented insignia to Padam Bahadur Budha and Pan Khatri, who were promoted from Assistant Warrant Officer to Subedar, at the Military Headquarters’ Combat Cantonment. The event was attended by Battalion Commanders, Warrant Officers, and other officers. Kathmandu, 27 Chaitra. The insignia was awarded in a ceremony held at the Military Headquarters Combat Cantonment. Both Padam Bahadur Budha (PhD) and Pan Khatri received the honor as part of their promotion to Subedar rank. The program was graced by the presence of battalion commanders, warrant officers, and various other officers.
Google has launched a free operating system upgrade plan called ChromeOS Flex for over 500 million users running Windows 10. With Microsoft ceasing security updates for Windows 10 after October 2023, older computers face increasing security risks. According to Google, ChromeOS Flex will enable old laptops to run faster, be more secure, and reduce energy consumption by 19%. Kathmandu, March 27.
For the over 500 million Windows 10 users, Google’s initiative offers significant relief. As older computers and laptops unable to upgrade to Windows 11 become vulnerable, Google has proposed a free upgrade for those devices through its ChromeOS Flex operating system. The discontinuation of Windows 10 security updates by Microsoft raises the risk of millions of computers becoming electronic waste. In response, Google, in partnership with the company Back Market, has introduced a new ChromeOS Flex USB kit.
Free Software: Users can download and use this cloud-based operating system for free on their old Windows or Mac computers. Speed and Security: Google claims it will run older laptops faster and provide improved protection against cyberattacks. Energy Savings: It consumes on average 19% less energy compared to other systems. USB Kit: To simplify software installation, Google has made available a reusable physical USB kit for approximately $3.
Microsoft’s Situation: Microsoft has launched the Extended Security Update (ESU) program for Windows 10, but this will only be effective until October this year. After that, Windows 10 users will face full exposure to security threats. Microsoft is promoting Windows 11 as a fully patched system and encouraging users to migrate to the new operating system. However, millions of older computers cannot support Windows 11, leading users to seek alternative solutions.
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