The process of forming NC-UML coalition govt expected to begin today
KATHMANDU, July 2: In a significant political development, Nepal's two major parties, Nepali Congress (NC) and the CPN-UML, have agreed to a power-sharing arrangement late Monday night.
The pact, finalized between NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba and UML Chairman KP Oli, outlines the ministerial division, provincial leadership roles and a rotation for the prime ministerial position.
Under the agreement that is expected to be finalized today, UML Chairman Oli will lead the government initially for the first half of the remaining term of the current parliament.
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A key architect of the agreement, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that this decision was reached through national consensus.
During Oli’s tenure, the UML will control take ministries, including the Prime Minister's position and the Finance Ministry. Similarly, the NC will oversee ten ministries, including the Home Ministry.
Additionally, according to the agreement, the UML will lead provincial governments in Koshi, Lumbini and Karnali provinces, while the NC will lead the provincial governments of Bagmati, Gandaki and Sudurpaschim provinces.
The two leaders have also agreed to involve Madhesh-based parties in leading Madhesh Province and have committed to constitutional amendments. A committee will be formed to recommend constitutional amendments.
Although the official agreement to this effect has not yet been publicized, leaders involved in drafting the agreement anticipate its public release on Tuesday.
The agreement was formally signed at midnight on Monday by Deuba and Oli, following the finalization of a draft by lower-level party leaders at a hotel in Lalitpur.
Senior leaders of the NC and the UML asserted that a coalition government involving both parties will be formalized by today.
Sources at the highest levels report ongoing discussions between the NC and UML regarding the power-sharing deal.
It is anticipated that a framework will be finalized by today, marking the commencement of the process of forming a new coalition government.
