Kavita Bisht
In a significant political development, Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli has clinched a decisive victory in the House of Representatives, solidifying his mandate to lead Nepal for the next two years. The 72-year-old veteran Communist leader, sworn in for his fourth term on Monday, garnered 188 votes in the 275-member House, surpassing the required majority by a significant margin.
Addressing the nation following his triumph, Oli unveiled a pivotal agreement forged with Nepali Congress Chief Sher Bahadur Deuba. Under this pact, Oli will helm the coalition government until July 2026, after which he has pledged to hand over leadership to Deuba until November 2027. This strategic transition aims to ensure stability and continuity in Nepal’s governance, as articulated by Oli in his post-vote address.
“We, the two parties, may differ ideologically, but this collaboration underscores our commitment to national interests,” Oli asserted, highlighting the cooperative spirit between his Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) and the Nepali Congress. Emphasizing their shared agenda, Oli outlined priorities including combating corruption, enhancing governance, accelerating development initiatives, and fostering political harmony, all in response to public demand.
The parliamentary ballot, which saw 74 votes cast against Oli’s motion primarily from opposition factions such as the Maoists and smaller conservative parties, underscores the polarization within Nepal’s political landscape. Despite these challenges, Oli’s victory reflects a consolidation of support within his coalition and a determination to navigate the country through its constitutional complexities.
Alongside his confirmation, Prime Minister Oli inaugurated a 21-member Cabinet, signaling his administration’s readiness to tackle the nation’s pressing issues. The swearing-in ceremony marked a formal commencement of Oli’s agenda, which includes a comprehensive review of Nepal’s constitutional framework to address its strengths and weaknesses.
In response to the prevailing political climate, observers anticipate heightened scrutiny and collaboration between Oli’s administration and opposition forces. This constructive engagement, Oli believes, will bolster Nepal’s democratic institutions and foster an environment conducive to sustainable development.
Looking ahead, Nepal braces for a period of transition under Oli’s leadership, punctuated by his commitment to relinquish power after two years in favor of coalition partner Deuba. This arrangement, while unprecedented in its design, aims to fortify Nepal’s governance and uphold the principles of democratic accountability.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Oli’s victory in the trust vote signals a pivotal moment in Nepal’s political trajectory, setting the stage for a transformative tenure marked by collaborative governance and strategic leadership transitions. As Nepal navigates its path forward, all eyes remain on the coalition’s ability to deliver on its promises amidst evolving national and international dynamics.
