Deputy Speaker Election Today: Shram Sanskriti’s Ruby Kumari Faces RPP’s Saraswati Lama

Nepal’s House of Representatives is set to elect a deputy speaker today at 4:00 pm, with a direct contest emerging after a last-minute U-turn by the RSP reshaped alliances inside parliament. The vote is crucial as it will test shifting political alignments and influence the balance of power in the House.

The election comes just hours after President Ram Chandra Poudel is scheduled to address a joint sitting of the federal parliament at 3:00 pm, setting the tone for a politically significant day.

Last-Minute Shift Reshapes Contest

The political equation changed dramatically after the ruling RSP reversed its decision just 10 minutes before final alignment. The party, which had earlier signaled support for RPP, instead decided to back the Shram Sanskriti candidate at the last moment.

The shift came after Prime Minister Balen Shah was not willing to offer the deputy speaker position to RPP, prompting a sudden recalculation within the ruling setup.

Ruby Kumari and Saraswati Lama Face Off

The deputy speaker race now features a direct contest between Shram Sanskriti’s Ruby Kumari Thakur and RPP nominee Saraswati Lama. RPP parliamentary leader Gyanendra Shahi said his party entered the race after receiving assurances of support from RSP chairman Rabi Lamichhane.

However, the late reversal has altered expectations, turning the election into a closely watched political contest.

Cross-Party Support Builds Momentum

RSP lawmaker Ashok Chaudhary has backed Ruby Kumari Thakur, strengthening her position ahead of the vote. Other parties, including the CPN bloc, have also indicated support for the Shram Sanskriti candidate, potentially giving her a numerical advantage in the House.

Presidential Address Ahead of Key Vote

Earlier in the day, President Ram Chandra Poudel will address a joint sitting of both the House of Representatives and the National Assembly. The address is expected to outline government priorities and provide political context just hours before lawmakers cast their votes.

Power Balance Faces Crucial Test

The developments highlight shifting alliances and coordination challenges within Nepal’s parliament. With positions changing at the last moment, today’s deputy speaker election is expected to serve as a key indicator of emerging power dynamics and political strategy inside the federal legislature.