The fifth meeting of the seventh session of the Lumbini Provincial Assembly was held on Sunday. During the meeting, most lawmakers who spoke expressed strong opposition to the detention of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, describing it as political retaliation. They also demanded their immediate release.
Provincial Assembly member Ratna Bahadur Khatri criticized the detention, calling it an act of political revenge and urging for their immediate release. He warned that failing to properly understand the protests of Bhadra 23 and 24 could push the country toward instability again.
Referring to incidents such as arson at the parliament building, he stated that such acts are unacceptable in a modern civilized society. He also highlighted concerns about threats to nationalism and sovereignty, calling for serious action to identify those involved and their intentions.
Khatri expressed dissatisfaction over the عدم publication of the investigation commission’s report and urged vigilance against attempts to drive the country toward violence and conflict.
Lawmakers Question Legal Process and Governance Issues
Provincial Assembly member Vishnu Prasad Panthi also described the detention of Oli and Lekhak as a revenge-driven move. He stated that taking action without making the controversial Karki Commission report public undermines the essence of the rule of law. However, he thanked all parties involved in successfully conducting the elections and congratulated the new leadership.
Similarly, Bhandari Lal Ahir called for a fair investigation into arson incidents in government structures and demanded the immediate release of the former Prime Minister and Home Minister. He argued that while fair decisions are acceptable, actions driven by revenge are not.
Dipendra Pun described the current political situation as uncertain and alleged misuse of majority power. He emphasized the need to make the role of the province more effective. Meanwhile, Hema Belbase expressed concern over rising cases of sexual violence in Lumbini Province and called for the establishment of a special fund to support victims.
Calls for Reform as Key Bills Tabled in Assembly
Anurag Khadka expressed dissatisfaction over weaknesses in budget implementation, stating that errors in the budget have increased public frustration. Mina Kumari Shrestha stressed the importance of good governance, transparency, and accountability, urging the government to prioritize these values, as the provincial assembly serves as a platform to raise the people’s voice.
Chandrakesh Gupta called for expanding access to education and implementing pending plans. Basiuddin Khan warned that strong winds have increased fire risks and urged the government to improve fire management systems. He also noted that the government has failed to effectively communicate its work to the public.
During the meeting, Minister for Industry, Tourism and Transport Prachanda Bikram Nyaupane presented a bill to establish and operate the Lumbini Pragya Pratisthan.
Chief Minister Chet Narayan Acharya proposed sending a bill to amend the District Assembly and District Coordination Committee Act, 2075, for clause-wise discussion in the Provincial Affairs and Law Committee. The proposal was unanimously approved, as informed by Speaker Tularam Gharti Magar. The next meeting is scheduled for Chaitra 23 at 1 PM.
