Kathmandu, May 23

The CPN-UML today took serious exception to the government’s decision to increase the number of local levels in Tarai districts. A Cabinet meeting held yesterday had decided to increase 22 local levels in Tarai districts.

The main opposition party said the government and the ruling coalition had made the forthcoming second phase of civic polls uncertain by increasing the number of local levels.

“We doubt if the decision was taken to sabotage the second phase of elections.” UML chair KP Sharma Oli said during a press meet. He said the government’s decision was against spirit of the constitution, prevailing laws and the election code of conduct.

Referring to remarks by Election Commission officials that the second phase of elections would not be possible on the stipulated date if the number of local levels were increased, Oli asked the government and the ruling coalition not to impose any decision that would influence the elections.

“The government has to present policy and programmes in the House in two days, present the new budget in five days and hold the elections in three weeks,” he said, urging the ruling parties to be serious towards constitutional obligations and responsibility to the people.

UML also reiterated its stand on the impeachment motion filed in the Parliament against Chief Justice Sushila Karki and asked the government to withdraw the motion as well as the constitution amendment bill.

The UML chair also accused the government of tabling the statute amendment bill without holding any consultation with the main opposition.

Chairman Oli also expressed serious objection on the government decision to withdraw the cases filed against the perpetrators involved in Tikapur carnage. He said the government decision to withdraw cases against those involved in the incident would promote impunity and encourage criminal activities.

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