CM Shakya preparing to take trust vote

KATHMANDU, September 28: Chief Minister (CM) of Bagmati Province Ashtalaxmi Shakya is all set to take a vote of confidence from the Provincial Assembly.

Earlier on August 18, Shakya was appointed CM of Bagmati Province but now has lost the majority following the split of CPN (UML). There are currently 46 lawmakers of UML in the Bagmati Province Assembly. To win a vote of confidence, Shakya must garner the support of 55 lawmakers of a total of 109 lawmakers in the assembly.

As per the constitution of Nepal, CM must take a vote of confidence by 30 days after losing majority in parliament and it has already been 2 weeks since CM Shakya officially lost majority in Bagmati Province.

Meanwhile, the ruling alliance is preparing to form a new government in the Province with 23 lawmakers of CPN (Maoist Center), 22 of Nepali Congress and 13 of CPN (Unified Socialist).

According to Shanti Prasad Poudel, Minister for Industry, Tourism, Forest and Environment of the Province, the government is likely to begin a House session soon to take a vote of confidence.