NC-UML all set to claim prime ministerial post to leader Oli

With Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal's failure to secure trust vote in the meeting of the House of Representatives (HoR) today, the Nepali Congress and the UML are all set to claim the prime ministerial post to UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli once the President makes a call for formation of the new government.

The NC, UML and others in the alliance are eagerly waiting for the call by President Ram Chandra Paudel for the formation of new government.

Talking to media persons following the HoR meeting today, NC Chief Whip Ramesh Lekhak expressed belief that the President would summon the political parties as per Article 76 (2) of constitution to stake claim for the new government as per Supreme Court precedent. This provision is invoked as long as the two or more political parties in parliament can form a government.

Leader from the same party Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat said NC was clear on proposing UML Chair Oli as new PM based on agreement.

Similarly, UML Chief Whip Mahesh Bartaula said they were ready to submit their proposal before the President for Oli-led government as per agreement made between NC and UML.

He hoped the President would summon the parties to stake claim for PM today itself or tomorrow.

However, CPN (Maoist Centre) lawmaker Madhav Sapkota said the President will call the parties for new government in accordance with Article 76 (3).

Sapkota further said his party would stand by the government if it is made as per Article 76 (3). But, it would be against the government led by UML Chair Oli.

He further informed that PM Dahal had left for visiting President Paudel.

Moreover, RSP Chairman Rabi Lamichhane claimed that his party worked honestly for country and people while being in government. Now, RSP would stay in opposition, he added.