UML Deputy Leader Aral Demands PM's Presence for Policy Debate

Kathmandu. UML Deputy Leader Padma Aryal has demanded that the Prime Minister himself be present for the presentation of the government's annual policy and program and the subsequent discussion. Emphasizing that the government's policy and program is a guiding document for the year, she stressed that the Prime Minister should be primarily accountable for it. Aryal objected to the Finance Minister being appointed as a 'proxy' due to the Prime Minister's busy schedule, arguing that it is irresponsible for the Prime Minister not to give time to the parliament when he is available in Kathmandu and active in other work. UML has taken a stance not to allow parliamentary proceedings to move forward until the Prime Minister's presence is ensured. Deputy Leader Aryal accused the Prime Minister of disregarding his responsibility towards the parliament and clarified that UML has had to take this step to make him realize his responsibility. When asked about the possibility of running the parliament with the strength of parliamentary arithmetic and majority, Aryal warned that the parliament cannot function without the opposition wanting it to. Speaking to journalists, Deputy Leader Aryal said, 'According to our laws and established traditions, the primary responsibility of presenting the policy and program, listening to the discussion, and responding is that of the Prime Minister. This is a guideline for how this government will move forward, so the Prime Minister cannot escape from it. It would be a different matter if there were an uncontrollable situation, but the Prime Minister is at work. There can be no agenda bigger than the discussion of the policy and program for him. If the opposition wants, the parliament cannot function, therefore, it is mandatory for the Prime Minister to come to parliament, listen to the questions of the MPs, and commit to answering them.' The current session of parliament has been adjourned for 15 minutes, and the Speaker is consulting with the party leaders. UML has indicated that it will continue its obstruction until the Prime Minister's presence or assurance of response is secured. Due to this stance of the opposition, the discussion on the government's policy and program appears to be affected.