"Change of government is a must," Koirala said when asked whether the present coalition will continue once the categorization process concludes. [break]
Koirala´s statement has come at a time when Prime Minister Dr Baburam Bhattarai has been claiming that the present government will take a form of consensus government after November 30, when the term of the CA is expected be renewed.
Earlier, replying to questions of journalists, Koirala categorically said that Nepali Congress would not join the present government even if the prime minister tries to give it a consensus character.
"NC will continue to remain in the opposition and support the government on the basis of merits and demerits," said Koirala during an interaction organized by Reporters´ Club Nepal at his residence in Baluwatar.
In another question about who should lead the next government if formed after the completion of the categorization process, the NC president said that the parties have not discussed the issue yet. But he was quick to add that NC should be given opportunity to lead the next government.
"The Maoist and CPN-UML have led two governments [after the CA election]. So now it is the turn of the Nepali Congress to lead the new government."
He also refuted rumors that he would lead the government to be formed to hold general elections after the promulgation of the new constitution. "I never yearn for power," said Koirala who has not yet assumed any public post.
Koirala dissatisfied with chief whip´s notice
Koirala said party chief whip Laxman Ghimire did not consult him before issuing whip to the party´s lawmakers to vote for extension of the CA´s next term.
"I am unaware about any decision in the party for extending the CA´s term. I will call a central working committee to discuss the term extension soon," said Koirala, expressing dissatisfaction over the chief whip´s decision.
Ghimire had issued a whip on Sunday, directing its lawmakers to vote for CA term extension.
Ghimire, however, refused to comment on the reaction made by the party president.
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