Nepal is on the brink of forming a new coalition government led by K.P. Sharma Oli, following a significant parliamentary vote that saw the ousting of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. This development marks the end of Dahal’s turbulent 20-month tenure and paves the way for the country’s 14th government since the abolition of its monarchy in 2008.
Political Instability in Nepal
Since transitioning from a 239-year-old monarchy to a republic in 2008, Nepal has experienced persistent political instability. The frequent changes in government highlight the challenges in achieving long-term political stability. The impending administration under Oli will be the 14th government in just 15 years.
International Interest
Nepal’s political landscape is closely watched by its powerful neighbors, China and India. Both nations have significant investments in the Himalayan country and are keenly interested in its political direction, as they vie for influence in the region.
The Fall of Dahal’s Government
Pushpa Kamal Dahal, 69, faced a critical parliamentary vote of confidence after his largest coalition partner, the Communist Unified Marxist Leninist (UML) party led by Oli, withdrew its support. Dahal, a former Maoist rebel leader, required at least 138 votes in the 275-member house to remain in power. However, only 63 lawmakers supported him, while 194 voted against, and one abstained. The result led Parliament Speaker Dev Raj Ghimire to announce the rejection of Dahal’s confidence vote.
Challenges During Dahal’s Tenure
Dahal’s third term as prime minister, beginning in December 2022, was marked by frequent coalition shifts and multiple votes of confidence. Throughout his tenure, he changed his main coalition partner three times and faced a vote of confidence five times, underscoring the political volatility he navigated.
Formation of the New Coalition
K.P. Sharma Oli, who has previously served as prime minister twice, has struck a pivotal deal with the centrist Nepali Congress (NC) party, securing enough seats to form a majority government. Although the exact date for the new government to take office has not been set, Oli is poised to assume leadership.
Concerns About the New Coalition
In a speech before the confidence vote, Dahal expressed concerns about the new coalition between the two largest political parties, the NC and UML. He argued that this alliance might undermine democratic practices, warning that it could lead to regression and authoritarianism. Dahal’s Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Center) remains the third-largest party in parliament.
Bottom Line
Nepal is set for another significant political shift with K.P. Sharma Oli’s anticipated return to power. The country continues to grapple with the challenges of political stability and the influences of neighboring giants, China and India. The formation of the new coalition government and its impact on Nepal’s democratic processes will be closely watched both domestically and internationally.
