Parliament debates govt's six months: Congress criticizes, RSP claims improved governance

Six months after the government's formation, ruling and opposition parties debated the government's performance in the House of Representatives on Thursday.

Bhishma Raj Angdembe, leader of the parliamentary party of the main opposition Nepali Congress, said that despite having a clear majority, the government has shown a lack of governing skill. He objected to Prime Minister Balen Shah not informing parliament before leaving for, and after returning from, the UN General Assembly's 81st session.

Leader Angdembe called the prime minister's absence while the House was in session a violation of parliamentary decorum. He accused the government of appearing weak in addressing inflation, black marketing, and relief for flood and landslide victims. He said there is a risk that a government that received a five-year mandate could turn the dream of development into a mirage if it gets entangled in minor issues.

Ganesh Parajuli, deputy leader of the ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party's parliamentary party, claimed that governance and service delivery had improved since the government was formed. He cited examples such as a digital system for transfers and promotions, home delivery service for passports and licenses, and distribution of land ownership certificates to landless people. He urged all sides to work together during disasters instead of trading blame.

CPN-UML lawmaker Laxmi Prasad Pokharel compared the government's formation to the Mahabharata character Jarasandha, accusing it of disregarding the presidential institution. He also said the prime minister does not attend his own party's meetings or all-party meetings.