Asim Shah Calls for Alternatives to Parliamentary Obstruction Amid Political Stalemate

Asim Shah, a lawmaker from the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), has urged for a solution to the ongoing parliamentary obstruction, warning that the public may seek their own alternatives if the deadlock continues. His remarks come amid increasing concerns over the potential consequences of prolonged disruptions in the House of Representatives (HoR).

Why this matters: The ongoing parliamentary obstruction in Nepal has significant implications for the country's political stability and governance. If not addressed, it could lead to further political instability, erosion of public trust, and hinder the country's development.

In an effort to address these concerns, Speaker Devraj Ghimire convened a meeting with chief whips and whips of major political parties at the Speaker's Office in Singha Durbar, Kathmandu. The meeting aimed to create an environment conducive to smooth House proceedings.

Speaker Ghimire expressed his apprehensions about potential obstructions in the upcoming HoR session if political parties fail to reach an understanding. He highlighted the risk of a constitutional crisis and the adverse impact on House business if the impasse persists.

The current deadlock stems from the major opposition party, Nepali Congress (NC), which has been obstructing House proceedings. The NC demands the formation of a parliamentary committee to investigate Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane's alleged involvement in the misappropriation of cooperative funds.

Despite agreeing to allow the presentation of the government's new policies and programs for the upcoming fiscal year in a joint sitting of the Federal Parliament, the NC has vowed to continue its obstruction thereafter. "Our protests will continue until our demand to form the parliamentary probe committee is addressed," stated NC party whip Sushila Thing.

In the previous meeting, Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane was granted time by the Speaker to present his views but was unable to do so because of the obstructions. RSP's Chief Whip Santosh Pariyar emphasized the need for Lamichhane to be allowed to express his views in the current session to maintain continuity.

President Ramchandra Paudel is scheduled to present the government's new policies and programs in the joint session of the parliament later today. Additionally, National Assembly Chairperson Narayana Prasad Dahal plans to hold discussions with leaders of political parties in the upper house to find ways to conduct National Assembly business amidst the ongoing obstructions in the HoR.

Asim Shah's call for an alternative to parliamentary obstruction reflects a growing frustration among lawmakers and the public. The need for effective governance and the smooth functioning of parliamentary proceedings is paramount to avoid further political instability.

Key Takeaways

• Nepali Congress obstructs House proceedings, demanding a parliamentary probe committee to investigate Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane.
• Speaker Devraj Ghimire convenes a meeting with chief whips to address concerns and create a conducive environment for smooth House proceedings.
• RSP lawmaker Asim Shah warns of public seeking alternatives if the deadlock continues, threatening political stability and governance.
• President Ramchandra Paudel to present government's new policies and programs in a joint session of parliament amidst ongoing obstructions.
• National Assembly Chairperson Narayana Prasad Dahal to hold discussions with party leaders to find ways to conduct business amidst obstructions.