Speaker Ghimire holds meeting with top leaders

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, May 8: Speaker Devraj Ghimire held talks with Parliamentary Party leaders of the major political parties in Singha Durbar on Tuesday. 

In the meeting held at the Office of the Speaker in Singh Durbar just three days before the budget session that is beginning on May 10, the leaders discussed major issues for the smooth functioning of the House proceedings. 

Although the leaders remained stuck in their previous demands, they agreed to enhance cooperation and coordination to ensure the smooth functioning of the House, according to Shekhar Adhikari, press advisor to Speaker Devraj Ghimire.  

Speaker Ghimire highlighted ongoing discussions with parliamentary leaders, emphasising the need for unimpeded House proceedings. He expressed optimism in major political parties’ commitment to smooth parliamentary operation, stressing their responsibility in facilitating proceedings.

“Even though we encounter many problems during the proceedings, they should not stop the House from functioning. Today’s meeting and discussions have set a strong foundation for the upcoming session, starting on May 10, to run smoothly,” said Speaker Ghimire.

Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane affirmed the government’s initiative to address cooperative issues through legislative means, cautioning against premature demands for a parliamentary committee. 

Nepali Congress reiterated its call for such a committee, emphasising thorough investigation through parliamentary channels.

Mahesh Bartaula, Chief Whip of the CPN (UML), expressed confidence in cooperation with the Nepali Congress to facilitate smooth parliamentary proceedings. He advocated for a platform within the House to address concerns regarding the Home Minister, stressing readiness for constructive dialogue.

Likewise, Santosh Pariyar, Chief Whip of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, emphasised productive discussions during the meeting, highlighting problem-solving as the focus. He stressed the importance of effective deliberations in the upcoming session of the Federal Parliament.

CPN (UML) Chairman and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli suggested granting Home Minister Lamichhane an opportunity to address the Parliament. 

However, in the meeting, the Nepali Congress reinforced its call for a parliamentary committee to investigate cooperative irregularities. But, UML and Rastriya Swatantra Party leaders dismissed the necessity of the inquiry committee. 

Nepali Congress Chief Whip, Ramesh Lekhak, reiterated the demand for a parliamentary inquiry, expressing hope for government consideration. In response, UML Chief Whip Mahesh Bartaula urged prudence, emphasising the need for deliberation following the Home Minister’s address.