UML Applies Brakes to Ministerial Appointments in Bagmati Province

Hetauda – In a significant political development, the CPN-UML, a coalition partner in Bagmati Province's government, has advised against immediate ministerial appointments. The party made this recommendation just as Chief Minister Bahadur Singh Lama was preparing to swear in three new ministers today.

UML's Call for Caution

Jhagannath Thapaliya, leader of UML's Bagmati parliamentary party, stated that rushing appointments could escalate controversies with long-term consequences. "Completing proper procedures and finalizing party leadership first would be more appropriate," Thapaliya explained. While acknowledging the CM's authority to disregard their suggestion, he emphasized UML's firm stance against immediate appointments.

Political Context

The intervention comes amid leadership turmoil in the Congress party, where Lama recently lost a no-confidence vote as parliamentary leader. With Congress scheduled to elect a new leader today, UML appears concerned about destabilizing the delicate coalition balance. 

Impact on Government Formation

Chief Minister Lama had initially planned to expand his cabinet with three appointments this morning. Following UML's intervention, the swearing-in ceremony has been postponed indefinitely. This delay highlights growing tensions within the ruling coalition as parties maneuver for influence.

The situation remains fluid, with further developments expected after Congress completes its internal leadership election process. Observers suggest UML's move aims to strengthen its bargaining position in future power-sharing negotiations