Miscellaneous
UML accuses govt of gerrymandering
The opposition CPN-UML has taken serious exception to the government’s decision to increase the number of local federal units in the midst of the polls, charging the ruling parties with gerrymandering.The opposition CPN-UML has taken serious exception to the government’s decision to increase the number of local federal units in the midst of the polls, charging the ruling parties with gerrymandering.
The second largest party concluded that increasing the number of local units after the beginning of the election process was gross violation of laws and the constitution.
A statement issued by UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli said the decision should not have been made taking cues from the results of the first-phase polls.
The party also claimed that the government’s decision had created confusions over the second round of vote scheduled for June 14.
UML leaders had also objected to the move during a three-party meeting held in Baluwatar. “The government’s decision should be backed by the law. We questioned on what basis the Cabinet decided to increase the local units,” Oli said after the Baluwatar meeting.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Federal Affairs and Local Development Bijay Kumar Gachhadar claimed that an agreement was reached in a meeting attended by Oli and Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba.
Gachhadar argued that the changes were essential to ensure participation of all the parties in the polls.
The UML also objected to a change in government between the two phases of polls. Oli held a press meet to lash out at Deuba, accusing him of being power-hungry.
Oli also asked Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal not to resign before holding the second-round polls. There is only 22 days left for the Phase II polls.
“Changing the government at this time will affect the polls. Therefore, I urged NC President Deuba to wait until the second-phase polls,” Oli said.
He also criticised the government for deciding to withdraw cases against those involved in the Madhes and Tharuhat movements and urged the NC and the Maoists to immediately withdraw the impeachment motion filed against Chief Justice Sushila Karki.