Kathmandu, July 19
The ruling CPN-UML has said there are what it called ‘constitutional ambiguities’ to clear before the formation of a new government. The party said it has no intention of staying on in power, and proposed a way out: Constitution amendment to remove the ambiguities and make way for formation of a new government.
The proposal comes at a time when the UML-led government seems to have its days numbered, with the CPN-Maoist Centre, a partner in the ruling coalition, withdrawing support in a bid to cobble together a government with support from the Nepali Congress, the main opposition and the largest party in the Nepal Parliament.
It also comes amid pressure on the UML-led government from the Nepali Congress, CPN-Maoist Centre and the United Democratic Madheshi Front to step down and make way for a new government.
UML leaders have been saying that forming a new government is impossible in the present context, given what they call ‘lack of clarity’ in the Constitution.
Speaking after the UML standing committee meeting on Tuesday, UML leader Pradip Gyawali said: The meeting discussed the no-confidence motion tabled against the government and constitutional ambiguities vis-a-vis formation of a new government. The UML does not want to remain in power on the basis of these ambiguities. But there’s a need to clear things out.
On Monday, Prime Minister KP Oli had floated a proposal to top Congress and Maoist leaders on constitutional amendment. The UML is awaiting their replies.
Talking to the media after the meeting, Gyawali said: Yesterday, Prime Minister floated a proposal on constitution amendment to Prachanda and Deuba. We have not received their responses yet.
Meanwhile, the UML has decided to protest in the Parliament against the plot to block implementation of the Constitution by toppling the present government.
Instead of moving the Fiscal Bill forward, Speaker Onsari Gharti has set the date for discussions on the no-confidence motion tabled against the government, UML leaders said at the meeting, criticising the speaker.
Gyawali said the plot against the government is actually aimed at blocking the implementation of the Charter.
He said the UML will protest against this design in the Parliament.
