In Nepal's latest elections,&nbsp;Nepali Congress (NC) has emerged as the country's largest single party with a total of 89 seats in the 275-member parliament. Despite securing the maximum number of seats, the party failed to claim a majority.&nbsp;

As per analysts, Sher Bahadur Deuba, 76, the leader of the Nepali Congress is expected to remain in power and take charge of the new government for the sixth time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepals-general-election-likely-to-deliver-hung-parliament-539962">Also read |&nbsp;Nepal's general election likely to deliver hung parliament</a>

The country's Election Commission showed that the NC- led five-party alliance secured 136 seats, just two seats short of claiming a majority, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Nepal's major parties,&nbsp;NC, UML, and the Maoist Centre took part in the elections. While the NC was able to secure 89 seats, UML won 78 seats.

NC's officials have claimed that they have sought support from other parties and legislators to meet the required majority.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-elections-2022-nepali-congress-and-cpn-uml-in-race-to-form-government-539038">Also read |&nbsp;Nepal Elections 2022: Nepali Congress has an edge over CPN-UML in race to form government</a>

The party&nbsp;spokesman Prakash Sharan Mahat said that Deuba has met CK Raut, leader of the Janamat Party seeking support in forming a new government. He&nbsp;claimed that Deuba will be the prime minister.

Asia's one of the poorest countries that has had 10 different governments since the abolition of its 239-year monarchy in 2008, Nepal has been in news for its formation of the new government.&nbsp;

Considering Nepal's&nbsp;neighbours, the NC is seen as pro-India while the UML is seen as closer to China.

Many youth leaders have also participated in the elections. Few&nbsp;have been successful to make their mark.&nbsp;

Election results for Nepal's seven provincial assemblies were held with the parliamentary elections, showing that no party got a clear majority.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Nepal's latest elections, Nepali Congress (NC) has emerged as the country's largest single party with a total of 89 seats in the 275-member parliament. Despite securing the maximum number of seats, the party failed to claim a majority.

In Nepal's latest elections, Nepali Congress (NC) has emerged as the country's largest single party with a total of 89 seats in the 275-member parliament. Despite securing the maximum number of seats, the party failed to claim a majority. As per analysts, Sher Bahadur Deuba, 76, the leader of the Nepali Congress is expected to remain in power and take charge of the new government for the sixth time. Also read | Nepal's general election likely to deliver hung parliament The country's Election Commission showed that the NC- led five-party alliance secured 136 seats, just two seats short of claiming a majority, Reuters reported. Nepal's major parties, NC, UML, and the Maoist Centre took part in the elections. While the NC was able to secure 89 seats, UML won 78 seats. NC's officials have claimed that they have sought support from other parties and legislators to meet the required majority. Also read | Nepal Elections 2022: Nepali Congress has an edge over CPN-UML in race to form government The party spokesman Prakash Sharan Mahat said that Deuba has met CK Raut, leader of the Janamat Party seeking support in forming a new government. He claimed that Deuba will be the prime minister. Asia's one of the poorest countries that has had 10 different governments since the abolition of its 239-year monarchy in 2008, Nepal has been in news for its formation of the new government. Considering Nepal's neighbours, the NC is seen as pro-India while the UML is seen as closer to China. Many youth leaders have also participated in the elections. Few have been successful to make their mark. Election results for Nepal's seven provincial assemblies were held with the parliamentary elections, showing that no party got a clear majority. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Nepal election 2022: Nepali Congress secures maximum seats, PM Deuba likely to remain in power 

The United States Embassy in Kathmandu reiterated the strong ties shared by US and Nepal, saying that their relationship is ‘broader than one agreement’.

The comments came after the Nepal government ratified the $500 million-dollar Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact for Nepal.

On Sunday, Nepal’s parliament finally ratified the much-debated MCC compact after the ruling coalition reached a consensus. The 12-point ‘interpretative declaration’ paves way for the ratification of the MCC agreement.&nbsp;

Reacting to the development, the embassy welcomed the decision taken by the Government of Nepal, saying, “Today's decision by Parliament to follow through on its signed commitment and ratify the compact will mean more jobs for the Nepali people, a reliable supply of electricity, and lower transportation costs.”

The MCC pact, signed agreement in 2017, aims to modernize Nepal’s energy and transportation sectors with the hope of helping more than 23 million Nepalis.

The Nepali government will now be able to continue to work towards implementing the five-year program.

“The decision whether to ratify the $500 million-dollar Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal Compact has always rested with the Government of Nepal as a sovereign democratic nation,” the statement said.&nbsp;

Outlining the benefits of the compact, the embassy said, “In the nearly 20 years since its inception, MCC compacts have helped alleviate poverty around the world by forming partnerships with developing countries who are committed to economic freedom, investing in their citizens, and good governance, including promoting democratic principles and combatting corruption.”

In an effort to ratify the MCC in Nepal’s parliament, US Ambassador to Nepal Randy Berry held several meetings with Nepali leaders including Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and opposition leader KP Sharma Oli.&nbsp;

After days of high-level political meetings and discussions, the MCC-Nepal Compact was finally ratified by the House of Representatives–Nepal’s lower house–on Sunday evening.

During the passage of the pact, the parliament witnessed ruckus scenes. The main opposition CPN-UML raised objections, while some leaders from the ruling alliance staged a walkout during the session.

The United States Embassy in Kathmandu reiterated the strong ties shared by US and Nepal, saying that their relationship is ‘broader than one agreement’. The comments came after the Nepal government ratified the $500 million-dollar Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact for Nepal.

The United States Embassy in Kathmandu reiterated the strong ties shared by US and Nepal, saying that their relationship is ‘broader than one agreement’. The comments came after the Nepal government ratified the $500 million-dollar Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact for Nepal. On Sunday, Nepal’s parliament finally ratified the much-debated MCC compact after the ruling coalition reached a consensus. The 12-point ‘interpretative declaration’ paves way for the ratification of the MCC agreement. Reacting to the development, the embassy welcomed the decision taken by the Government of Nepal, saying, “Today's decision by Parliament to follow through on its signed commitment and ratify the compact will mean more jobs for the Nepali people, a reliable supply of electricity, and lower transportation costs.” The MCC pact, signed agreement in 2017, aims to modernize Nepal’s energy and transportation sectors with the hope of helping more than 23 million Nepalis. The Nepali government will now be able to continue to work towards implementing the five-year program. “The decision whether to ratify the $500 million-dollar Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal Compact has always rested with the Government of Nepal as a sovereign democratic nation,” the statement said. Outlining the benefits of the compact, the embassy said, “In the nearly 20 years since its inception, MCC compacts have helped alleviate poverty around the world by forming partnerships with developing countries who are committed to economic freedom, investing in their citizens, and good governance, including promoting democratic principles and combatting corruption.” In an effort to ratify the MCC in Nepal’s parliament, US Ambassador to Nepal Randy Berry held several meetings with Nepali leaders including Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and opposition leader KP Sharma Oli. After days of high-level political meetings and discussions, the MCC-Nepal Compact was finally ratified by the House of Representatives–Nepal’s lower house–on Sunday evening. During the passage of the pact, the parliament witnessed ruckus scenes. The main opposition CPN-UML raised objections, while some leaders from the ruling alliance staged a walkout during the session.

US welcomes Nepal parliament for ratifying $500 million MCC infrastructure aid deal

Amid growing opposition over a United States-funded infrastructure programme in Nepal, the US embassy in Kathmandu on Saturday said the decision to ratify the compact solely rests with the Nepal government.

In September 2017, the US government signed a $500 million compact with the Government of Nepal under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) initiative.&nbsp;

The compact aims to fund the maintenance of road quality, increase the availability and reliability of electricity, and facilitate cross-border electricity trade between Nepal and India.

It aims to spur investments, accelerate economic growth, and reduce poverty in the Himalayan country.

Issuing a statement a day before the parliament session’s schedule, the embassy said, “This $500 million MCC grant is a gift from the American people and a partnership between our nations that will bring jobs and infrastructure to Nepal and improve the lives of Nepalis.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/frustration-mounts-in-nepal-over-mcc-453927">Frustration mounts in Nepal over MCC</a>

“This project was requested by the Nepali government and the Nepali people, and is designed to transparently reduce poverty and grow the economy of the country,” it added.&nbsp;

According to the MCC agency, Nepal faces extensive economic development challenges caused by an inadequate supply of electricity and high transportation costs to move both goods and people.&nbsp;

It says that MCC Nepal Compact marks a new chapter in the US-Nepal Partnership and is designed to increase the availability of electricity and lower the cost of transportation in Nepal.

An additional $130 million contribution from the Government of Nepal in support of the compact—the largest up-front partner country contribution in MCC’s history—will enable even greater impact and benefits for the Nepali people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-headway-on-mcc-in-nepal-after-all-party-meeting-453337">No headway on MCC in Nepal after all-party meeting</a>

Meanwhile, the coalition of five-ruling parties in Nepal has failed to reach a common ground so far on the parliament ratification.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, who came to power only in July last year, has assured the US that the pact will be ratified in the ongoing winter session.&nbsp;

Coalition partners, mainly communists, and the opposition believe that the compact will undermine the country's constitution and that the US may use Nepal's soil against China under its Indo-Pacific strategy.&nbsp;

There has been a wide range of protests against the compact across the country.&nbsp;

Following which, US Ambassador to Nepal Randy Berry on Friday said, “Violence and incitement to violence are never acceptable.”

“We are a strong supporter of free speech and public discourse based on facts, including on MCC. The right to express one’s views is intrinsic to democracy, and people must be allowed to peacefully share their views. Violence and incitement to violence are never acceptable,” Berry said in a tweet.&nbsp;

The session of the House of Representatives on Friday concluded without the controversial MCC being tabled in parliament due to a lack of consensus among the coalition partners.

Adjourning the session, Speaker Agni Sapkota informed that the next meeting on the issue will be held on Sunday at 1 pm.

Amid growing opposition over a United States-funded infrastructure programme in Nepal, the US embassy in Kathmandu on Saturday said the decision to ratify the compact solely rests with the Nepal government.

Amid growing opposition over a United States-funded infrastructure programme in Nepal, the US embassy in Kathmandu on Saturday said the decision to ratify the compact solely rests with the Nepal government. In September 2017, the US government signed a $500 million compact with the Government of Nepal under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) initiative. The compact aims to fund the maintenance of road quality, increase the availability and reliability of electricity, and facilitate cross-border electricity trade between Nepal and India. It aims to spur investments, accelerate economic growth, and reduce poverty in the Himalayan country. Issuing a statement a day before the parliament session’s schedule, the embassy said, “This $500 million MCC grant is a gift from the American people and a partnership between our nations that will bring jobs and infrastructure to Nepal and improve the lives of Nepalis.” Also read | Frustration mounts in Nepal over MCC “This project was requested by the Nepali government and the Nepali people, and is designed to transparently reduce poverty and grow the economy of the country,” it added. According to the MCC agency, Nepal faces extensive economic development challenges caused by an inadequate supply of electricity and high transportation costs to move both goods and people. It says that MCC Nepal Compact marks a new chapter in the US-Nepal Partnership and is designed to increase the availability of electricity and lower the cost of transportation in Nepal. An additional $130 million contribution from the Government of Nepal in support of the compact—the largest up-front partner country contribution in MCC’s history—will enable even greater impact and benefits for the Nepali people. Also read | No headway on MCC in Nepal after all-party meeting Meanwhile, the coalition of five-ruling parties in Nepal has failed to reach a common ground so far on the parliament ratification. Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, who came to power only in July last year, has assured the US that the pact will be ratified in the ongoing winter session. Coalition partners, mainly communists, and the opposition believe that the compact will undermine the country's constitution and that the US may use Nepal's soil against China under its Indo-Pacific strategy. There has been a wide range of protests against the compact across the country. Following which, US Ambassador to Nepal Randy Berry on Friday said, “Violence and incitement to violence are never acceptable.” “We are a strong supporter of free speech and public discourse based on facts, including on MCC. The right to express one’s views is intrinsic to democracy, and people must be allowed to peacefully share their views. Violence and incitement to violence are never acceptable,” Berry said in a tweet. The session of the House of Representatives on Friday concluded without the controversial MCC being tabled in parliament due to a lack of consensus among the coalition partners. Adjourning the session, Speaker Agni Sapkota informed that the next meeting on the issue will be held on Sunday at 1 pm.

MCC ratification Nepal’s sovereign decision: US 

Sher Bahadur Deuba, Nepal's prime minister, will travel to India for a four-day visit and will attend the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, which will begin on January 10.

His visit to India will be his first since taking office.&nbsp;

On January 9, the Nepal Prime Minister will fly to New Delhi on his way to Ahmedabad for the summit.

According to a foreign ministry official, Deuba has convened a cabinet meeting for Wednesday to establish the visit's agenda.&nbsp;

"A cabinet meeting is being held today to decide on the agenda and purpose of the visit. At the meeting, leaders will also decide on other officials who will accompany the PM. Till now, the visit of Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka along with the PM is certain, " an official of the Foreign Ministry told WION.

This will be Deuba's first trip to India after taking office for the fifth time in July.

Bilateral meetings between the two prime ministers are also likely.

During the COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow in November, he did have a brief meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

According to a Foreign Ministry official, the visit has been finalised, and plans are on for the Prime Minister to speak at one of the summit's sessions.&nbsp;

In the presence of Heads of States, Ministers, Global Business Leaders and CEOs, Ambassadors, officials from Multilateral Institutions, and Trade and Business Organizations from around the world, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will open the event at the Mahatma Mandir Convention Center in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

The event will be attended by foreign ministers from 15 countries.&nbsp;

Sher Bahadur Deuba, Nepal's prime minister, will travel to India for a four-day visit and will attend the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, which will begin on January 10.

Sher Bahadur Deuba, Nepal's prime minister, will travel to India for a four-day visit and will attend the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, which will begin on January 10. His visit to India will be his first since taking office. On January 9, the Nepal Prime Minister will fly to New Delhi on his way to Ahmedabad for the summit. According to a foreign ministry official, Deuba has convened a cabinet meeting for Wednesday to establish the visit's agenda. "A cabinet meeting is being held today to decide on the agenda and purpose of the visit. At the meeting, leaders will also decide on other officials who will accompany the PM. Till now, the visit of Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka along with the PM is certain, " an official of the Foreign Ministry told WION. This will be Deuba's first trip to India after taking office for the fifth time in July. Bilateral meetings between the two prime ministers are also likely. During the COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow in November, he did have a brief meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to a Foreign Ministry official, the visit has been finalised, and plans are on for the Prime Minister to speak at one of the summit's sessions. In the presence of Heads of States, Ministers, Global Business Leaders and CEOs, Ambassadors, officials from Multilateral Institutions, and Trade and Business Organizations from around the world, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will open the event at the Mahatma Mandir Convention Center in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The event will be attended by foreign ministers from 15 countries.

Nepal PM Sher Bahadur Deuba to visit India, yet to outline agenda 

Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Thursday shared Nepal’s experiences in the journey of democracy and democratic transformation during the Summit for Democracy hosted by United States President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

Deuba participated in the Leader’s Summit for Democracy hosted virtually and highlighted the achievements made on the front of Nepal’s home-grown peace process.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-democracy-summit-100-nations-invited-china-russia-see-red-after-being-left-out-435351">Biden's Democracy Summit: 100+ nations invited, China &amp; Russia see red after being left out</a>

The Prime Minister stated that the democratic and inclusive Constitution was made by the elected Constituent Assembly as part of the peace process.&nbsp;

“He stated that Nepal’s success story is a testimony that even the most complicated political differences could be resolved through dialogue. While highlighting Nepal’s commitments to and achievements on gender equality, the Prime Minister stressed that democracy must deliver on people’s aspirations and that the country has now prioritized economic agendas in order to sustain democracy,” according to the statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister also sent a pre-recorded video message for the summit in which he shared Nepal’s commitments to women empowerment, fight against corruption, inclusive representation in all domains of governance and completion of the peace process, among others.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democracy-facing-alarming-challenges-worldwide-says-biden-during-summit-for-democracy-435540">Democracy facing alarming challenges worldwide, says Biden during Summit for Democracy</a>

According to the ministry, he highlighted universal suffrage, separation of power, checks and balances, an independent judiciary, and protection of rights and freedoms as the key features of Nepal’s multiparty democracy.&nbsp;

Nepal has also released a separate statement outlining the country's views on democracy, human rights, and good governance as well as achievements made on these fronts.

Earlier, US Embassy in Nepal hosted a Summit for Democracy supporting event on the eve of the summit.&nbsp;

Addressing the event, US Ambassador Randy Berry highlighted the achievements Nepal has made in recent years, “In many ways Nepal serves as a model for the region and the world. Within the last 15 years, Nepal has progressed through a violent Maoist conflict, subsequent peace process, the return of democratic governance, and the ratification of a constitution that defined Nepal as a secular, democratic, and federal government.”

Watch |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden flags off virtual Democracy Summit

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The summit is a part of a series of programs supporting the resilience of democracy and overcoming challenges throughout the year 2022.&nbsp;

While addressing the first-ever virtual Summit for democracy, US President Joe Biden said, "democracy does not happen by accident, it needs to be renewed with every generation.”&nbsp;

“Democracy needs champions," the US president said with over 100 countries invited to the virtual summit.

Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Thursday shared Nepal’s experiences in the journey of democracy and democratic transformation during the Summit for Democracy hosted by United States President Joe Biden.

Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Thursday shared Nepal’s experiences in the journey of democracy and democratic transformation during the Summit for Democracy hosted by United States President Joe Biden. Deuba participated in the Leader’s Summit for Democracy hosted virtually and highlighted the achievements made on the front of Nepal’s home-grown peace process. Also read | Biden's Democracy Summit: 100+ nations invited, China & Russia see red after being left out The Prime Minister stated that the democratic and inclusive Constitution was made by the elected Constituent Assembly as part of the peace process. “He stated that Nepal’s success story is a testimony that even the most complicated political differences could be resolved through dialogue. While highlighting Nepal’s commitments to and achievements on gender equality, the Prime Minister stressed that democracy must deliver on people’s aspirations and that the country has now prioritized economic agendas in order to sustain democracy,” according to the statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Prime Minister also sent a pre-recorded video message for the summit in which he shared Nepal’s commitments to women empowerment, fight against corruption, inclusive representation in all domains of governance and completion of the peace process, among others. Also read | Democracy facing alarming challenges worldwide, says Biden during Summit for Democracy According to the ministry, he highlighted universal suffrage, separation of power, checks and balances, an independent judiciary, and protection of rights and freedoms as the key features of Nepal’s multiparty democracy. Nepal has also released a separate statement outlining the country's views on democracy, human rights, and good governance as well as achievements made on these fronts. Earlier, US Embassy in Nepal hosted a Summit for Democracy supporting event on the eve of the summit. Addressing the event, US Ambassador Randy Berry highlighted the achievements Nepal has made in recent years, “In many ways Nepal serves as a model for the region and the world. Within the last 15 years, Nepal has progressed through a violent Maoist conflict, subsequent peace process, the return of democratic governance, and the ratification of a constitution that defined Nepal as a secular, democratic, and federal government.” Watch | US President Joe Biden flags off virtual Democracy Summit The summit is a part of a series of programs supporting the resilience of democracy and overcoming challenges throughout the year 2022. While addressing the first-ever virtual Summit for democracy, US President Joe Biden said, "democracy does not happen by accident, it needs to be renewed with every generation.” “Democracy needs champions," the US president said with over 100 countries invited to the virtual summit.

Nepal commits to sustain democracy, highlights achievements during Biden’s democracy summit 

The United States government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) on Saturday expressed dissatisfaction over the delay in Parliamentary ratification of its $500 million grant to Nepal, after the government prorogued the session on Friday.

The government decided to end the Parliament session as the main opposition party, CPN-UML, had been obstructing House proceedings since September 8 when the new session of the Parliament began.

The main opposition party stalled the House proceedings to protest the alleged bias of Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota.

Later in the evening, the MCC, a US government aid agency, issued a statement, saying, “The delay in ratification jeopardises the critical and timely support for this $500 million grant which would provide to help more than 23 million Nepalis access reliable energy and safer roads,” the statement said.&nbsp;

The statement, however, said that they were assured by the coalition leaders to ratify the grant as soon as possible.

On her four-day visit to Nepal in September, Fatima Z. Sumar, Vice President of the MCC, met senior Nepali political party leaders including Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba.&nbsp;

“MCC’s senior delegation visit to Nepal in September, which provided clarifications on the MCC-Nepal Compact, combined with recent commitments from the Government of Nepal confirming their ongoing support for the grant have laid a clear path forward for the compact,” the statement added.&nbsp;

The parliamentary ratification of MCC has already been sidelined on multiple counts the as political parties are divided over whether the federal government should ratify the compact.&nbsp;

Deuba continues to stand firm on getting the MCC passed through the Parliament, but his coalition partners, including the Maoist Centre, are yet to take a clear stand.&nbsp;

Outlining the 70 years of partnership between Nepal and the US, the MCC said, “From disaster assistance after the 2015 earthquake to our ongoing whole-of-government response to the coronavirus pandemic – including the donation of 1.6 million COVID19 vaccines to date – the United States has been there for the people of Nepal in their greatest times of need.”&nbsp;

The $500 million grant from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is a continuation of the strong partnership between the United States and Nepal to reduce poverty through economic growth.

The MCC said the decision whether to move forward with the compact now rests with Nepal.

The United States government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) on Saturday expressed dissatisfaction over the delay in Parliamentary ratification of its $500 million grant to Nepal, after the government prorogued the session on Friday.

The United States government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) on Saturday expressed dissatisfaction over the delay in Parliamentary ratification of its $500 million grant to Nepal, after the government prorogued the session on Friday. The government decided to end the Parliament session as the main opposition party, CPN-UML, had been obstructing House proceedings since September 8 when the new session of the Parliament began. The main opposition party stalled the House proceedings to protest the alleged bias of Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota. Later in the evening, the MCC, a US government aid agency, issued a statement, saying, “The delay in ratification jeopardises the critical and timely support for this $500 million grant which would provide to help more than 23 million Nepalis access reliable energy and safer roads,” the statement said. The statement, however, said that they were assured by the coalition leaders to ratify the grant as soon as possible. On her four-day visit to Nepal in September, Fatima Z. Sumar, Vice President of the MCC, met senior Nepali political party leaders including Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba. “MCC’s senior delegation visit to Nepal in September, which provided clarifications on the MCC-Nepal Compact, combined with recent commitments from the Government of Nepal confirming their ongoing support for the grant have laid a clear path forward for the compact,” the statement added. The parliamentary ratification of MCC has already been sidelined on multiple counts the as political parties are divided over whether the federal government should ratify the compact. Deuba continues to stand firm on getting the MCC passed through the Parliament, but his coalition partners, including the Maoist Centre, are yet to take a clear stand. Outlining the 70 years of partnership between Nepal and the US, the MCC said, “From disaster assistance after the 2015 earthquake to our ongoing whole-of-government response to the coronavirus pandemic – including the donation of 1.6 million COVID19 vaccines to date – the United States has been there for the people of Nepal in their greatest times of need.” The $500 million grant from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is a continuation of the strong partnership between the United States and Nepal to reduce poverty through economic growth. The MCC said the decision whether to move forward with the compact now rests with Nepal.

US expresses concern over Nepal parliament’s delay in ratifying $500mn grant

Nepal Government, a coalition of five parties, on Sunday evening unveiled its 14-page 'common minimum programme' (CMP) and aims to pursue a balanced foreign policy.&nbsp;

The common minimum programme is a practice followed by coalition governments in Nepal. It usually outlines the minimum objectives of a coalition government to be fulfilled.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-on-verge-of-being-hit-by-third-wave-of-covid-19-pm-deuba-403849" hreflang="en">Nepal on verge of being hit by third wave of COVID-19: PM Deuba</a>

This document was released by Nepali Congress leader and CMP coordinator Purna Khadka at an event. It was attended by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' and Janata Samajwadi Party Chairman Upendra Yadav.&nbsp;

"Government’s priority is to resolve border issues with neighbouring countries including Limpiyadhura, Kalapani and Lipulekh through diplomatic means," said Senior Nepali Congress leader Purna Bahadur Khadka.&nbsp;

According to the document, the government will focus on strengthening friendly relations with other countries and neighbours to expand the area of mutual cooperation.&nbsp;

CMP added that border security would be strengthened with the addition of border posts along the international border to prevent smuggling.

The prevention and control of COVID-19&nbsp;has been highlighted as the major priority of the incumbent coalition government. The top priority of the government is to vaccinate all eligible citizens by the end of April 2022.&nbsp;

It also emphasised on laying down preparations for a possible third wave of COVID-19.&nbsp;

The document also highlights implementation of national security policy, safeguarding national interests and revising the treaties and agreements which are against the nation's interest.&nbsp;

It also guarantees to take concrete steps to make all state machinery, including public administration and state agencies, fair and accountable.&nbsp;

In view of the economic hit caused by the pandemic, the government has said it aims to provide incentives to the affected industries and amend necessary laws and regulations to promote national interest.&nbsp;

The programme also emphasises on making necessary arrangements for rescue, relief, rehabilitation and assistance to families hit by floods.&nbsp;

Deuba was appointed as the Prime Minister for a record fifth time on July 12 and is yet to expand his cabinet.&nbsp;It has been over three weeks and discussion on the cabinet formation is still ongoing. Currently, besides Deuba, there are four Cabinet ministers and one minister of state in the Cabinet.

Nepal Government, a coalition of five parties, on Sunday evening unveiled its 14-page 'common minimum programme' (CMP) and aims to pursue a balanced foreign policy.

Nepal Government, a coalition of five parties, on Sunday evening unveiled its 14-page 'common minimum programme' (CMP) and aims to pursue a balanced foreign policy. The common minimum programme is a practice followed by coalition governments in Nepal. It usually outlines the minimum objectives of a coalition government to be fulfilled. Also read | Nepal on verge of being hit by third wave of COVID-19: PM Deuba This document was released by Nepali Congress leader and CMP coordinator Purna Khadka at an event. It was attended by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, CPN (Maoist Center) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' and Janata Samajwadi Party Chairman Upendra Yadav. "Government’s priority is to resolve border issues with neighbouring countries including Limpiyadhura, Kalapani and Lipulekh through diplomatic means," said Senior Nepali Congress leader Purna Bahadur Khadka. According to the document, the government will focus on strengthening friendly relations with other countries and neighbours to expand the area of mutual cooperation. CMP added that border security would be strengthened with the addition of border posts along the international border to prevent smuggling. The prevention and control of COVID-19 has been highlighted as the major priority of the incumbent coalition government. The top priority of the government is to vaccinate all eligible citizens by the end of April 2022. It also emphasised on laying down preparations for a possible third wave of COVID-19. The document also highlights implementation of national security policy, safeguarding national interests and revising the treaties and agreements which are against the nation's interest. It also guarantees to take concrete steps to make all state machinery, including public administration and state agencies, fair and accountable. In view of the economic hit caused by the pandemic, the government has said it aims to provide incentives to the affected industries and amend necessary laws and regulations to promote national interest. The programme also emphasises on making necessary arrangements for rescue, relief, rehabilitation and assistance to families hit by floods. Deuba was appointed as the Prime Minister for a record fifth time on July 12 and is yet to expand his cabinet. It has been over three weeks and discussion on the cabinet formation is still ongoing. Currently, besides Deuba, there are four Cabinet ministers and one minister of state in the Cabinet.

Nepal govt unveils ‘common minimum programme’

For 30 years Nepal has endured political instability at the expense of economic development. With Nepal’s supreme court ejecting Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli from office, reinstating the dissolved parliament and ordering appointment of Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba as the prime minister, the instability has taken a new twist. &nbsp;

The apex court’s intervention, the second in five months, alters the balance of power in the country’s constitutional scheme in a way that was never expected or foreseen.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepals-apex-court-orders-appointment-of-deuba-as-prime-minister-reinstates-dissolved-lower-house-397609">Nepal's apex court orders appointment of Deuba as prime minister</a>

The court’s first intervention came on February 23, when it ordered reinstatement of the house, which President Bidya Devi Bhandari had dissolved, and ordered fresh elections in the wake of the political crisis that erupted in December 20 last. &nbsp;

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The crisis was triggered by the power struggle within the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP), triggered by Prime Minister Oli’s refusal, midway through his ministry’s term, to step down in favour of former Maoist leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal alias Prachanda.

Himself a former PM, Prachanda was backed by another former PM, Madhav Kumar Nepal, who had also led Oli’s party before its merger with the Maoists.&nbsp;

In the first instance in February, too, a constitution bench of the court had held the dissolution of parliament to be null and void and ordered reinstatement of the house.

Oli, however, held on to office without calling a parliament session until May, when he sought a vote of confidence as required.&nbsp;

Although 124 in the house of 275 were ranged against Oli, who could muster the support of only 93 members, President Bhandari reappointed him as prime minister on the tenuous ground that he was leading the single largest party.

That marked the president as partisan and her emergence as an active political player who had broken out of her ceremonial role as head of state. &nbsp;

After Oli lost the vote of confidence on May 10, when President Bhandari asked a suitable candidate to stake claim to form the government, NC leader Deuba was the clear frontrunner.

He submitted his claim, backed with list of 149 MPs in a house with an effective strength of 271, well in time. Besides NC members, his list included MPs from Prachanda’s Maoist party—which had returned to its original identity, also in May, after the court had struck down its merger with Oli’s Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (UML)—a breakaway group of the Samajbadi Janata Party and 23 UML dissidents.

Not to be outdone, Oli also gave a list claiming the support of 153 MPs. His numbers were suspect because it included MPs who were assumed to be bound by party whips. &nbsp;

The president rejected both the claims, dissolved parliament, appointed Oli as PM again and announced fresh elections to be held in November. This was challenged in the supreme court by 146 MPs who filed 30 writ petitions asking the court to uphold Deuba’s claim to be made PM.&nbsp;

In the event, the court’s constitutional bench has upheld their claim which has brought Oli’s spectacular run as prime minister to an ignominious end.

His handsome victory in the 2018 election was perceived to be because he stood up to India during the nearly five-month economic blockade of Nepal in 2015-16; spurned New Delhi’s diktat to postpone promulgation of Nepal’s new constitution; joined issue with India in the UN; and, fought on a nationalist platform boosted by an alliance of the communist parties.&nbsp;

However, it remains to be seen whether the judicial victory based on constitutional correctness would prevail politically and bring back stability to the fractured polity.

Deuba has 30 days to prove his majority. His chances of clearing this floor test depend not only on Nepali Congress MPs but also on Prachanda’s Communist Party (Maoist) and the UML dissidents led by Madhav Nepal. These supporters are certain to extract their pound of flesh to refrain from giving the revolving door of the PM’s office another turn.&nbsp;

Even after winning the vote of confidence, Deuba has to contend with the changed balance of power where the lines between parliament, judiciary and executive are no longer what they were; and, a president who has proved to be interventionist.

In addition to the supreme court and the president, Nepal’s multiparty democracy is also confronted with two big powers, India and China, which seek to influence the course of its politics and policies, and not always discreetly or by diplomatic means. &nbsp;

(The author is Editorial Consultant, WION TV.)

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

For 30 years Nepal has endured political instability at the expense of economic development. With Nepal’s supreme court ejecting Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli from office, reinstating the dissolved parliament and ordering appointment of Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba as the prime minister, the instability has taken a new twist.

For 30 years Nepal has endured political instability at the expense of economic development. With Nepal’s supreme court ejecting Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli from office, reinstating the dissolved parliament and ordering appointment of Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba as the prime minister, the instability has taken a new twist. The apex court’s intervention, the second in five months, alters the balance of power in the country’s constitutional scheme in a way that was never expected or foreseen. Also Read | Nepal's apex court orders appointment of Deuba as prime minister The court’s first intervention came on February 23, when it ordered reinstatement of the house, which President Bidya Devi Bhandari had dissolved, and ordered fresh elections in the wake of the political crisis that erupted in December 20 last. × The crisis was triggered by the power struggle within the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP), triggered by Prime Minister Oli’s refusal, midway through his ministry’s term, to step down in favour of former Maoist leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal alias Prachanda. Himself a former PM, Prachanda was backed by another former PM, Madhav Kumar Nepal, who had also led Oli’s party before its merger with the Maoists. In the first instance in February, too, a constitution bench of the court had held the dissolution of parliament to be null and void and ordered reinstatement of the house. Oli, however, held on to office without calling a parliament session until May, when he sought a vote of confidence as required. Although 124 in the house of 275 were ranged against Oli, who could muster the support of only 93 members, President Bhandari reappointed him as prime minister on the tenuous ground that he was leading the single largest party. That marked the president as partisan and her emergence as an active political player who had broken out of her ceremonial role as head of state. After Oli lost the vote of confidence on May 10, when President Bhandari asked a suitable candidate to stake claim to form the government, NC leader Deuba was the clear frontrunner. He submitted his claim, backed with list of 149 MPs in a house with an effective strength of 271, well in time. Besides NC members, his list included MPs from Prachanda’s Maoist party—which had returned to its original identity, also in May, after the court had struck down its merger with Oli’s Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (UML)—a breakaway group of the Samajbadi Janata Party and 23 UML dissidents. Not to be outdone, Oli also gave a list claiming the support of 153 MPs. His numbers were suspect because it included MPs who were assumed to be bound by party whips. The president rejected both the claims, dissolved parliament, appointed Oli as PM again and announced fresh elections to be held in November. This was challenged in the supreme court by 146 MPs who filed 30 writ petitions asking the court to uphold Deuba’s claim to be made PM. In the event, the court’s constitutional bench has upheld their claim which has brought Oli’s spectacular run as prime minister to an ignominious end. His handsome victory in the 2018 election was perceived to be because he stood up to India during the nearly five-month economic blockade of Nepal in 2015-16; spurned New Delhi’s diktat to postpone promulgation of Nepal’s new constitution; joined issue with India in the UN; and, fought on a nationalist platform boosted by an alliance of the communist parties. However, it remains to be seen whether the judicial victory based on constitutional correctness would prevail politically and bring back stability to the fractured polity. Deuba has 30 days to prove his majority. His chances of clearing this floor test depend not only on Nepali Congress MPs but also on Prachanda’s Communist Party (Maoist) and the UML dissidents led by Madhav Nepal. These supporters are certain to extract their pound of flesh to refrain from giving the revolving door of the PM’s office another turn. Even after winning the vote of confidence, Deuba has to contend with the changed balance of power where the lines between parliament, judiciary and executive are no longer what they were; and, a president who has proved to be interventionist. In addition to the supreme court and the president, Nepal’s multiparty democracy is also confronted with two big powers, India and China, which seek to influence the course of its politics and policies, and not always discreetly or by diplomatic means. (The author is Editorial Consultant, WION TV.) (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | On The Margin: New twist, old turn in Nepal

Nepal's main opposition leader Sher Bahadur Deuba was sworn in as prime minister on Tuesday after the country's highest court ousted his predecessor following months of political turmoil.

K.P. Sharma Oli, who came into power in 2018, was removed as PM by the Supreme Court on Monday after it rejected his latest effort to dissolve the bicameral parliament.

The 69-year-old first tried to dissolve parliament in December, but that attempt was also overturned by the court.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-oli-resigns-questions-supreme-courts-verdict-397824" hreflang="en">Nepal PM Oli resigns, questions Supreme Court’s verdict</a>

"I, in the name of God, the country and people, pledge that I will be committed and honest to the nation and its people to fulfil my duty as prime minister," Deuba said as officials looked on.&nbsp;

Deuba, the head of the opposition Nepali Congress, had claimed to have the support of 149 members of the 275-seat lower house.

He is the third Nepali lawmaker to become prime minister of the country for the fifth time.

The 74-year-old leader has to win a vote of confidence in the lower house within a month to retain the prime ministership.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sher-bahadur-deuba-to-be-sworn-in-as-nepals-prime-minister-today-397793" hreflang="en">Sher Bahadur Deuba to be sworn in as Nepal's prime minister today</a>

Political analyst Lok Raj Baral said Deuba might struggle to retain the required support among lawmakers.

"If he fails to win the majority of votes, he can call for fresh elections and still lead the government to hold the polls," Baral said.&nbsp;

The Oli government had come to power in 2018 with a two-thirds majority.&nbsp;

There was optimism that his strong mandate at the polls would end years of instability and short-lived governments exacerbated by a devastating earthquake in 2015.&nbsp;

Deuba was elected as Nepal's prime minister four times between 1995 and 2018, including during the brutal, decade-long Maoist insurgency.&nbsp;

Nepal's main opposition leader Sher Bahadur Deuba was sworn in as prime minister on Tuesday after the country's highest court ousted his predecessor following months of political turmoil.

Nepal's main opposition leader Sher Bahadur Deuba was sworn in as prime minister on Tuesday after the country's highest court ousted his predecessor following months of political turmoil. K.P. Sharma Oli, who came into power in 2018, was removed as PM by the Supreme Court on Monday after it rejected his latest effort to dissolve the bicameral parliament. The 69-year-old first tried to dissolve parliament in December, but that attempt was also overturned by the court. Also read | Nepal PM Oli resigns, questions Supreme Court’s verdict "I, in the name of God, the country and people, pledge that I will be committed and honest to the nation and its people to fulfil my duty as prime minister," Deuba said as officials looked on. Deuba, the head of the opposition Nepali Congress, had claimed to have the support of 149 members of the 275-seat lower house. He is the third Nepali lawmaker to become prime minister of the country for the fifth time. The 74-year-old leader has to win a vote of confidence in the lower house within a month to retain the prime ministership. Also read | Sher Bahadur Deuba to be sworn in as Nepal's prime minister today Political analyst Lok Raj Baral said Deuba might struggle to retain the required support among lawmakers. "If he fails to win the majority of votes, he can call for fresh elections and still lead the government to hold the polls," Baral said. The Oli government had come to power in 2018 with a two-thirds majority. There was optimism that his strong mandate at the polls would end years of instability and short-lived governments exacerbated by a devastating earthquake in 2015. Deuba was elected as Nepal's prime minister four times between 1995 and 2018, including during the brutal, decade-long Maoist insurgency.

Sher Bahadur Deuba sworn in as Nepal PM

Nepali Congress or NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba is set to become the Himalayan nation&#39;s prime minister for the fourth time after the main opposition party decided to end the obstruction of parliament.

Nepal parliament is conducting election to the post of the prime minister today.

Deuba, 70, is the sole candidate to contest in the prime ministerial election as the main opposition UML and other parties did not send their candidates. Deuba has the support of more than 50 per cent lawmakers needed for his election to the top post.

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Nepal&#39;s parliamentarians have started the process to elect veteran politician and acting prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba as the 40th head of the government. The move comes ahead of the second phase of local polls in the country (WION)
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He needs to secure 297 votes in the 593-strong parliament to prove his majority during today&#39;s election. With the Nepali Congress-Maoist Centre alliance having 287 seats in parliament and four other parties supporting the alliance with 21 seats, it looks plain sailing for Deuba.

The election was postponed since Sunday after the main opposition CPN-UML launched a protest over re-election in a ward. However, now with the opposition party agreeing to end obstruction of parliament, the NC president is set to become the Himalayan nation&#39;s 40th prime minister.

The CPN-UML decided to end House obstruction after the ruling parties agreed to hold local election in the remaining four provinces on June 28 and the provincial and parliamentary elections by January 2018.

&quot;We decided to end the obstruction in parliament after the ruling parties agreed to commit in the house to hold elections in the remaining four provinces and not repeating any irregularities,&quot; said former UML chairman Jhal Nath Khanal after the meeting between the government&#39;s ministers and opposition leaders.

Under Nepal&#39;s constitution, a candidate must secure a simple majority in parliament to get elected as the head of the government. The CPN-Maoist Centre, Madhesi Peoples Rights Forum Democratic, Rastriya Prajatantra Party and other small parties have agreed to vote in favour of&nbsp;Deuba.

He is likely to form a small cabinet tomorrow, which will be expanded in a few days. Some Madhesi parties are also likely to join the coalition. The responsibility of conducting the second phase of local elections will rest on Deuba.

Outgoing Prime Minister Prachanda of the CPN (Maoist Centre) proposed Deuba&#39;s candidacy while NC leader Ram Chandra Poudel seconded the proposal at the Parliament Secretariat, which last week published the schedule to elect the prime minister on a majority basis.

Prachanda resigned on May 24 after a brief stint of nine months, honouring a power sharing understanding with the ruling coalition partner Nepali Congress to hand over the country&#39;s leadership to the largest party in parliament.

Deuba served prime minister from 1995 to 1997, from 2001 to 2002, and from 2004 to 2005. He was sacked by the then King Gyanendra Shah in 2005 over failure to hold elections and bring Maoist rebels to a roundtable negotiation.

(PTI)

Deuba is the sole candidate to contest in the prime ministerial election as the main opposition UML and other parties did not send their candidates

Nepali Congress or NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba is set to become the Himalayan nation's prime minister for the fourth time after the main opposition party decided to end the obstruction of parliament. Nepal parliament is conducting election to the post of the prime minister today. Deuba, 70, is the sole candidate to contest in the prime ministerial election as the main opposition UML and other parties did not send their candidates. Deuba has the support of more than 50 per cent lawmakers needed for his election to the top post. Nepal's parliamentarians have started the process to elect veteran politician and acting prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba as the 40th head of the government. The move comes ahead of the second phase of local polls in the country (WION) × He needs to secure 297 votes in the 593-strong parliament to prove his majority during today's election. With the Nepali Congress-Maoist Centre alliance having 287 seats in parliament and four other parties supporting the alliance with 21 seats, it looks plain sailing for Deuba. The election was postponed since Sunday after the main opposition CPN-UML launched a protest over re-election in a ward. However, now with the opposition party agreeing to end obstruction of parliament, the NC president is set to become the Himalayan nation's 40th prime minister. The CPN-UML decided to end House obstruction after the ruling parties agreed to hold local election in the remaining four provinces on June 28 and the provincial and parliamentary elections by January 2018. "We decided to end the obstruction in parliament after the ruling parties agreed to commit in the house to hold elections in the remaining four provinces and not repeating any irregularities," said former UML chairman Jhal Nath Khanal after the meeting between the government's ministers and opposition leaders. Under Nepal's constitution, a candidate must secure a simple majority in parliament to get elected as the head of the government. The CPN-Maoist Centre, Madhesi Peoples Rights Forum Democratic, Rastriya Prajatantra Party and other small parties have agreed to vote in favour of Deuba. He is likely to form a small cabinet tomorrow, which will be expanded in a few days. Some Madhesi parties are also likely to join the coalition. The responsibility of conducting the second phase of local elections will rest on Deuba. Outgoing Prime Minister Prachanda of the CPN (Maoist Centre) proposed Deuba's candidacy while NC leader Ram Chandra Poudel seconded the proposal at the Parliament Secretariat, which last week published the schedule to elect the prime minister on a majority basis. Prachanda resigned on May 24 after a brief stint of nine months, honouring a power sharing understanding with the ruling coalition partner Nepali Congress to hand over the country's leadership to the largest party in parliament. Deuba served prime minister from 1995 to 1997, from 2001 to 2002, and from 2004 to 2005. He was sacked by the then King Gyanendra Shah in 2005 over failure to hold elections and bring Maoist rebels to a roundtable negotiation. (PTI)

Sher Bahadur Deuba set to become Nepal PM

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