The political landscape in Nepal is currently marked by intense rivalry, particularly between the CPN-UML leader KP Sharma Oli and Maoist Center leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, who was ousted from power in a sudden manner. Prachanda is now pursuing a strategy aimed at political retribution. In response, Prime Minister Oli and the CPN-UML have adopted a more aggressive stance, accusing Prachanda of engaging in corrupt practices. This visible conflict between the two dominant communist factions is likely to lead Nepal's political environment into a state of uncertainty. Prachanda has issued warnings regarding the potential for political unrest reminiscent of the turmoil seen in Bangladesh.
By Keshab Poudel Sep 13, 2024
Renowned for his populist rhetoric, K.P. Sharma Oli, the leader of the Communist Party of Nepal - United Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML), is embarking on his fourth term as prime minister, leading a cabinet of 21 members from a coalition of four political parties. Positioned between the two major regional powers of Asia, India and China, Oli faces a challenging task in navigating the diplomatic relations with his neighboring countries. Similarly, he is confronted with a complex situation in managing the Nepali Congress, his competitive party and coalition partner, which presents a daunting and intricate situation. His initial visible challenge is to establish trust with India, particularly its southern neighbor, and with the Nepali Congress, his new ally and longstanding rival. Regardless of political claims, the countdown to the start of this government has already begun, as all previous governments in Nepal have.
By Keshab Poudel Jul 21, 2024
Nepal has had three governments in just 16 months, although Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda remains in power. In his recent reshuffle, PM Prachanda appointed 21 ministers from four political parties, including CPN-UML, Rastriya Swatantra Party, Janta Samajbadi Party, and CPN-US, while removing Nepali Congress. As no political party has a majority, it is likely that there will be more coalitions in the future. Maoist leader Prachanda believes that the Nepali Congress leaders' non-committal attitude towards the Maoist-Center is a key factor behind the current political developments, including the changing coalition. However, Nepal's politics over the past five decades has shown a fading ideology. There is no clear divide between left and right when it comes to sharing power, which remains a factor of instability, besides the geo-strategic position.
By Keshab Poudel Mar 12, 2024