Dahal’s Cabinet Reshuffle Plan Gains Momentum

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has initiated preparations to advance his stalled Cabinet reshuffle plan following a green light from Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba. The two leaders reached a agreement during a meeting held on Thursday, signaling a potential shake-up in the government’s top ranks.

While the specifics of the reshuffle are yet to be finalized, it is anticipated that Prime Minister Prachanda will convene discussions with Deuba and other key figures within the ruling coalition to deliberate on potential changes to the Cabinet lineup. Among the key considerations are whether the entire slate of ministers will undergo changes or if selective replacements will be made.

Sources close to the Prime Minister have indicated that discussions will primarily focus on addressing concerns surrounding certain ministers who have faced allegations of misconduct or have been embroiled in controversies. Health Minister Mohan Bahadur Basnet, Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Prakash Jwala, and Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Sudan Kirati are among those likely to be scrutinized for their roles in various contentious issues.

As Prime Minister Prachanda is scheduled to address Parliament on Monday, there is a sense of urgency to resolve the matter swiftly. Prior to facing lawmakers’ inquiries, the Prime Minister aims to reach consensus with coalition partners on the course of action regarding the embattled ministers.

Moreover, with the upcoming National Assembly chair election becoming a bone of contention between the two coalition partners, political leaders said the prime minister has put pressure on the Congress to effect a Cabinet reshuffle without further delay.

After a recent Standing Committee meeting of the Maoist Centre decided to field its own candidate for the Assembly chair, misunderstanding grew in the ruling alliance. The Congress has already forwarded the name of Krishna Prasad Sitaula for the Assembly chair, anticipating full support of the ruling alliance. The Maoists’ claim to the chair as the largest party in the Assembly, possibly with the opposition CPN-UML’s backing, made Congress leaders suspicious of Dahal’s intent.

According to Min Bishwakarma, the head of the Congress publicity division, the discussions are expected to take place before the assembly chair election.

The issue of Cabinet reshuffle has been a topic of discussion for some time, with Prime Minister Dahal expressing his intention to make changes to the Cabinet lineup. However, this decision was initially postponed at the request of Congress leader Deuba until after the conclusion of the Congress Mahasamiti meeting.

Now, with the Mahasamiti meeting concluded, Prime Minister Dahal is renewing his efforts to bring about a new-look Cabinet. While some ministers may be retained, the majority are expected to be replaced.

The decision on the Cabinet reshuffle is likely to involve negotiations and compromises among the ruling parties. According to Bishwakarma, there will be a “give and take” during the process, aimed at facilitating the prime minister.

Amidst these discussions, the issue of the National Assembly chair election also looms large. While the Congress is optimistic about securing the position, the Maoist Centre remains confident in its ability to clinch the post. However, the possibility of the UML supporting a Maoist candidate cannot be ruled out.

The rift between the Congress and the Maoist Centre, which was highlighted during the recent Mahasamiti meeting, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Issues such as electoral alliances and the Maoist insurgency have strained relations between the two parties.

To address these concerns and pave the way for smoother negotiations, Deuba is set to hold discussions with the prime minister. These discussions are expected to clarify the stance of the ruling parties and pave the way for a decisive resolution on the Cabinet reshuffle and the assembly chair election.