September 12, 2017
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba yesterday created a new record in the history of Nepali politics by forming a largest cabinet of 54 ministers.
With the sixth expansion in the last three months, Deuba’s cabinet strength increased to 54 as the Prime Minister inducted three more ministers and a Minister of State.
However, Deuba is facing criticism for his decision of record cabinet expansion.
“Expansion of the cabinet is a clear violation of the code of conduct and it will also raise question of impartiality of the government as elections to the local level are just one week away,” said Nepali Election Commission in its official release, yesterday.
In contrast to EC’s statement, Deuba today said that the cabinet will likely be expanded further. “Despite the size, many are still vying for ministerial berths. Cabinet may be expanded further if needed,” he added.
In response to the criticism, he clarified that the recent expansion will not be withdrawn. Stating that the cabinet expansion was necessary, Deuba affirmed that the government has not violated any election code. He also informed that the government took EC’s approval before implementing the decision.
With regard to constitutional amendment, Deuba said the possibilities of amendments increased after elections.
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