Main Opposition Warns of Parliament Boycott Over PM's Absence

Kathmandu. The main opposition party Nepali Congress has warned of boycotting the parliamentary session if Prime Minister Balen Shah does not appear to answer the discussion on the government's policy and program. Speaking in the House of Representatives meeting, Congress leader Arjun Narsingh KC clarified that although it would be permissible for Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle to present the proposal for discussion on the policy and program in the absence of the Prime Minister, Prime Minister Shah himself must answer it. Leader KC objected, stating that Prime Minister Shah has been disregarding parliamentary traditions and norms one after another. According to the rules, a minister designated by the Prime Minister can present any matter in Parliament in the Prime Minister's absence, so the process of presenting the proposal will not be obstructed, but Congress demands that the Prime Minister must be present during the question-and-answer session. Congress has raised serious questions about the low importance given to Parliament by the Prime Minister. Speaking in the session, leader KC said, 'It is our general view that the Prime Minister has been disregarding parliamentary traditions and norms one after another. Especially, we who are standing here are motivated by that view. When the Prime Minister's presence is demanded, according to parliamentary tradition, any minister designated by the Prime Minister can present any program in the absence of the Prime Minister. We have no objection if the honorable minister presents the current matter. However, if the Prime Minister is also absent during the answer session, we will be compelled to boycott the Parliament.' MP KC, interpreting Rule 38 of the regulations, reminded that it is a parliamentary practice for any minister to present the Prime Minister's responsibilities in Parliament. He stated that while they have adopted a policy of not obstructing the presentation of the proposal, he emphasized that the Prime Minister must be present himself to answer the discussion, keeping in mind the dignity and accountability of the House.