Rumors of cabinet reshuffle baseless: Home Minister Lekhak

Dhangadhi, November 21 – Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has dismissed rumors about a cabinet reshuffle, calling them baseless. He clarified that, as of today, no discussions have been held regarding changes in the ministerial lineup.

Speaking at a press conference organized by the Press Union in Dhangadhi, Minister Lekhak said that the Prime Minister has the authority to reshuffle ministers if necessary under the Prime Ministerial system. He stated, "Since this is a coalition government, any reshuffle would require discussions between the two parties, but no such discussions have taken place so far."

Minister Lekhak emphasized that the coalition will remain intact until 2027 AD, adding that after 1 year and 8 months, the current Prime Minister will be replaced by Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba as per the coalition agreement.

When asked about reported tensions between the two coalition parties over the Prime Minister's planned visit to China, Lekhak dismissed these as baseless rumors stemming from routine discussions. He clarified, "There is no misunderstanding between UML and Congress. Despite being main competitors, we are jointly running the government smoothly and will continue to do so until the 2027 elections."

Addressing questions about the Prime Minister's foreign visits, Lekhak stated that it is customary for a new Prime Minister to undertake foreign trips soon after taking office. He downplayed the significance of choosing between India or China as the first destination, explaining, "The date for the Prime Minister’s China visit has already been set, and he will visit India shortly afterward."

Home Minister Lekhak was in Dhangadhi to attend a security conference, where he reviewed provincial security measures. He assured that new plans will soon be implemented to ensure peace and security.