- The Nepalese government has recalled ambassadors from 11 countries, including significant ones like India and the United States.
- The ambassadors in question were initially appointed under the quota of the Nepali Congress party.
- Prime Minister Prachanda, who had formed a coalition government with the Nepali Congress, decided to terminate the alliance and join forces with KP Sharma Oli.
- Reports suggest that Foreign Minister Shrestha opposed the unilateral decision to recall the ambassadors, arguing that some of them had performed well.
- The recall of ambassadors adds to the political turmoil in Nepal, which has witnessed multiple confidence votes and coalition shifts.
- The recall of ambassadors and the ongoing political instability raise questions about Nepal’s governance and diplomatic relations with key nations.
In a move that underscores the ongoing political turbulence within Nepal, the government has taken the unprecedented step of recalling ambassadors from 11 countries, including significant diplomatic partners like India and the United States. This decision, coming at a crucial juncture in Nepal’s political landscape, raises questions about the country’s internal power dynamics and its diplomatic relations with key nations. Let’s delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding this recall and its implications.
The Nepalese government, led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, has recalled ambassadors from 11 countries, including significant ones like India and the United States. This move comes amidst internal political shifts and power struggles within the ruling coalition.
The decision to recall ambassadors coincided with Prime Minister Prachanda’s planned visit to India to attend Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony. Despite reservations expressed by Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Kaji Shrestha, the recall proceeded, potentially sending an undiplomatic message.
The ambassadors in question were initially appointed under the quota of the Nepali Congress party. However, Prime Minister Prachanda, who had formed a coalition government with the Nepali Congress, decided to terminate the alliance and join forces with KP Sharma Oli. This led to the desire to replace ambassadors deemed to be “non-performing,” including those appointed under the Nepali Congress’ quota.
Reports suggest that Foreign Minister Shrestha opposed the unilateral decision to recall the ambassadors, arguing that some of them had performed well. However, Prachanda and Oli proceeded with the recall, despite objections, underscoring the power dynamics within the ruling coalition.
Among the recalled ambassadors are prominent figures like Shankar Sharma (India), Sridhar Khatri (USA), Gyan Chandra Acharya (United Kingdom), and Jyoti Pyakurel Bhandari (South Korea). They were appointed during the tenure of Sher Bahadur Deuba as Prime Minister in 2021.
The recall of ambassadors adds to the political turmoil in Nepal, which has witnessed multiple confidence votes and coalition shifts. Prachanda secured a vote of confidence for the fourth time after breaking off the alliance with the Nepali Congress, highlighting the volatile nature of the country’s political landscape.
Prime Minister Prachanda’s need for repeated confidence votes stems from constitutional obligations. In the face of coalition splits or withdrawals of support, the Prime Minister is required to seek a vote of confidence within 30 days. The recent withdrawal of support by the Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) further complicates the political situation.
The recall of ambassadors and the ongoing political instability raise questions about Nepal’s governance and diplomatic relations with key nations. As internal power struggles persist, the country faces challenges in maintaining stability and conducting effective foreign policy.
In summary, Nepal’s decision to recall ambassadors from 11 nations, including India, reflects the complex interplay of politics, diplomacy, and power dynamics within the country’s ruling coalition.
(With inputs from agencies)
