Pokhara, July 3

Rajiv Gurung, an independent lawmaker of Gandaki Province, is all set to join the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP). Gurung was elected from Manang Constituency-Kha as an independent candidate with support from then CPN-UML.

NCP central member Bhim Karki said preparations were under way to welcome Provincial Assembly lawmaker Gurung into the party tomorrow. Gandaki Province Chief Minister and province in-charge Prithivi Subba Gurung is scheduled to welcome Rajiv Gurung into the party.

Lawmaker Gurung said he had made up his mind to join the party after long and hard thinking. Sixteen months after his election, Gurung was administered oath of office and secrecy by Province Speaker Netranath Adhikari.

Immediately after the polls, Gurung was arrested by police for organised crime, including an attempt to murder. Later, Gurung was released by the Supreme Court.

After his release, Gurung took the oath of office and secrecy in Pokhara.  With his entry, the number of lawmakers has reached 38 in Gandaki Provincial Assembly.