Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav, a prominent Madhesi leader, tendered his resignation on Monday, dealing a setback to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda’s coalition government. Yadav, who also served as the Minister for Health and Population, submitted his resignation alongside Minister of State for Forest and Environment Dipak Karki, both representing the same party.
The resignations come amidst internal turmoil within the Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal (JSP-Nepal), of which Yadav is the Chairman. Last week, the party split into two factions, with senior leader Ashok Rai forming a new party called Janata Samajwadi Party, recognized by the Election Commission.
Yadav’s resignation was motivated by the current political situation, making it untenable for him to continue cooperating with the government, as stated in his resignation letter to Prime Minister Prachanda.
The departure of JSP-Nepal from the government reduces its strength in the House of Representatives from 12 to 5 lawmakers. However, the ruling coalition, led by Prachanda, maintains a majority with support from CPN-UML, Maoist Centre, Rastriya Swatantra Party, and the newly formed Janata Samajbadi Party and CPN-Unified Socialist.
While the immediate impact of JSP-Nepal’s withdrawal may not disrupt the Prachanda-led coalition government, there are concerns about its long-term stability. Political observers note that the Nepali Congress, the main opposition party, is attempting to mobilize JSP-Nepal and CPN-US to challenge the government’s majority.
The Nepali Congress has been obstructing House of Representatives proceedings, demanding the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Ravi Lamichhene over allegations of cooperative fund misappropriation.
Sources By Agencies
