Nepal Lawmakers Take Oath at Singha Durbar Amid Crowds and Logistical Challenges

Kathmandu — Newly elected members of Nepal’s House of Representatives took the oath of office and secrecy at Singha Durbar on Thursday, drawing large crowds and exposing logistical challenges at the temporary parliamentary venue.

Heavy Crowd and High Public Interest

The usually quiet administrative complex saw heavy activity hours before the scheduled ceremony, as lawmakers, supporters, officials, and journalists gathered for the formal commencement of the new parliamentary term.

The Federal Parliament Secretariat had instructed members to arrive two hours in advance. However, several lawmakers reached the venue shortly before the 2:00 PM ceremony, citing traffic congestion and unfamiliarity with the location.

The presence of many first-time lawmakers heightened public and media interest. Security personnel and parliamentary marshals were deployed extensively to manage crowds and maintain order.

Temporary Venue and Logistical Challenges

The oath ceremony was held at a newly constructed multipurpose hall inside the Singha Durbar complex. The usual venue, the International Convention Centre in New Baneshwor, remains unusable after being damaged during recent protests, while the new parliament building at Singha Durbar is still under construction. The oath was administered by senior-most member Arjun Narsingh KC.

According to the Secretariat, parliamentary meetings will continue at the same hall until the new building is completed and handed over. Ongoing construction work in the area has led to disorganized parking and limited infrastructure.

Confusion over entry points caused minor disruptions, with even senior political leaders briefly heading toward incorrect gates due to unclear directions. Heavy security presence and media crowds added to the congestion.

Media coverage was also affected by space limitations. Only a limited number of camera operators were allowed inside the hall, while others followed the ceremony via large display screens set up outside.

Symbolism, Representation and Formal Process

After taking the oath, lawmakers received official insignia and badges. Many attended the event with family members, adding a personal dimension to the ceremony.

Some lawmakers drew attention for symbolic and cultural representation. One member arrived in a school uniform to highlight the role of education and parents, while others wore traditional attire reflecting Nepal’s ethnic diversity. Lawmakers with disabilities also participated, ensuring inclusive representation.

Under Nepal’s Constitution, members of the House of Representatives must take the oath of office and secrecy before formally assuming their legislative duties.