Nepal Government Weighs New Bills as Ordinances Face Lapse Deadline

Nepal's government is navigating a legislative quandary as eight ordinances, issued by President Ramchandra Paudel on May 5, face an uncertain future. These ordinances, tabled in Parliament on May 11, require endorsement by both houses to become permanent laws. However, the government has yet to initiate the necessary approval process, casting doubt on their survival.

The ordinances are set to automatically lapse on July 10 if Parliament does not act. The Federal Parliament Secretariat confirmed that the ordinances are not on the agenda for upcoming sessions, leaving their fate entirely dependent on the government's next move. This delay comes amid significant pressure to pass crucial budget-related bills, further complicated by disruptions from opposition parties.

Sources suggest the government is exploring the possibility of introducing entirely new bills in Parliament rather than seeking approval for the existing ordinances. This approach may stem from challenges in the National Assembly, where the ruling party lacks representation and opposition parties have already signaled their intent to reject the ordinances. Unlike ordinances, ordinary bills can proceed even if the upper house proposes amendments.

A minister indicated that the government's hesitation is also linked to the ongoing parliamentary disruptions and the fact that the core objectives behind some ordinances, such as facilitating the appointment of the chief justice, have already been met. The Constitutional Council has already recommended Manoj Kumar Sharma for the chief justice position following the issuance of a relevant ordinance.

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After the ordinances were tabled, no further procedure has moved ahead. They are not included in the House of Representatives agenda for June 8 either. Whether they proceed after that will depend entirely on the government.