The Election Commission (EC) has warned the government not to reshuffle the cabinet until after the provincial and parliamentary elections.

According to a news report published in My Republica, the warning  comes at a time when Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba is reportedly preparing to sack ministers representing the CPN (Maoist Center) in the cabinet. Maoist Center, a key ally in the ruling coalition, forged an electoral alliance with the main opposition party this week and also agreed to merge with it in the long run.

“The government should not be reshuffled at this moment. I have already conveyed this message to the prime minister,” said Chief Election Commissioner Ayodhee Prasad Yadav, adding, “Also, the commission has issued a press statement today urging the government and the parties not to engage in any activities that can affect the scheduled elections.” 

“Deuba had reportedly consulted with Yadav, requesting him to allow a reshuffle of the cabinet in the context of the key coalition partner’s move to join hands with opposition parties,” said the daily.