Kathmandu, Jan 13: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has made it clear that while there is a need to amend the law related to the division of political parties, it is not his job to split or merge any political party.
During a meeting with the newly elected office bearers and members of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) today at the Prime Minister’s Residence in Baluwatar, Prime Minister Oli expressed his concern over the spread of rumors and negativity regarding an ordinance on party division that has been forwarded.
Prime Minister Oli clarified that the merging and splitting of any political party is an internal matter of that party. He mentioned that during his previous term as Prime Minister, complications arose when a party split, as the constitution required 40 percent support in both the parliamentary party and the central committee of the respective political party. Realizing the impracticality of this provision, his government had forwarded an ordinance allowing for 40 percent of the parliamentary party or the central committee to split any political party, but it was withdrawn due to strong opposition.
He pointed out that those who opposed the ordinance at that time later split the party by arranging for 20 percent of the MPs to divide the party. Prime Minister Oli stated that he currently has no intention of pursuing such actions. He emphasized that the government has recommended various ordinances to the President with the goal of promoting the development of the country and serving the people.
Prime Minister Oli also addressed false statements circulating about Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba opposing the matter. He stressed that such misinformation could hinder people’s access to accurate information, urging the FNJ to remain vigilant about such issues.
He highlighted the government’s commitment to working tirelessly for the benefit of the country and its citizens, stating, “We didn’t come here for a 9 to 5 job. Recognizing our responsibility towards the country and its people, we work day and night. I do not engage in secretive or deceitful work.”
In response to a question about working openly for the country, Prime Minister Oli questioned whether good work could not be done at night. He announced that the government would draft a law to combat fake and forged documents under different names, expressing confidence that journalists should have professional security and that the state would support this.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Oli congratulated the officials and members of the FNJ, including Chairperson Nirmala Sharma.
Chairperson Sharma and General Secretary Ram Prasad Dahal raised concerns about freedom of the press and expression, with Chair Sharma noting the historic moment of having a woman in leadership this time, despite delays in the general election for various reasons. #FNJ #nepal #politicalparty
