KATHMANDU: The Cabinet meeting on Tuesday eschewed from taking any formal decision on withdrawal of two ambassadorial nominees— Aasha Lama and Sharmila Parajuli , according to a knowledgeable source.

The Cabinet is expected to make final decision on the fate of Lama and Parajuli, who were recommended by Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba and Madhesi Janadhikar Forum-Democratic Chairman Bijay Kumar Gachhadar respectively to lead Nepali diplomatic missions in the to the United Arab Emirates and Oman, after Minister for Foreign Affairs Prakash Sharan Mahat returns to the Capital. Minister Mahat is currently in Geneva to take part in the Human Rights Council’s meeting.

Last week, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had decided to drop their names following widespread criticism and media reports about the duo's controversial business engagements.

What is more, MFJ-D Chairman Bijaya Kumar Gachhadar, who had lent his party's support to the Maoist-Nepali Congress coalition government and got the quota in return, had strongly protested the move in a meeting with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal yesterday. Dahal reportedly assured Gachhadar of looking into the matter it and finding a solution.

On February 20, the Cabinet had recommended 14 people, including Lama and Parajuli, for the diplomatic responsibilities abroad, sharing quota among the ruling parties and offering one to the MJF-D.

The final list that Minister Mahat prepared before flying to Geneva was expected to be presented before the Cabinet today.

READ ALSO:

• Govt nominates 14 ambassadors on pro rata quota
• MoFA withdraws two ambassadorial nominees