Nepal News Evening Briefing | Saturday, April 26, 2025

KATHMANDU: Stay informed with Nepal News’ daily evening briefing, covering the most significant news from Nepal and around the world. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we bring you a concise summary of the day’s top news.

PM Oli Dismisses Government Collapse Rumours, Urges UML Unity and Focus on Development:

Prime Minister and CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli dismissed rumours about the government’s collapse following NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba’s return from Thailand, stating that such speculation has faded. Speaking at a parliamentary party meeting, Oli urged UML leaders to focus on strengthening the party and ensuring political stability, development, and good governance. He emphasized preparing a balanced budget and addressing regressive, anti-constitution forces. Referring to the MCC project closure, he stressed self-reliance for development. Highlighting “Mission 2084,” Oli called for internal unity and encouraged lawmakers to act responsibly and knowledgeably in parliament.

Prachanda Vows to Address Teachers’ Demands, Predicts Unity Among Maoist Factions:

CPN (Maoist Centre) Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ said his party is working hard to address the demands of protesting teachers. Speaking at the second conference of the party’s Sindhupalchowk-Kathmandu Liaison and Coordination Committee, Prachanda emphasized his commitment to implementing agreements made with teachers during his premiership. He also underlined the need to institutionalize the Constitution, federal democratic republic, and inclusive system. Prachanda claimed growing public support through the party’s postal road campaign, which resumes tomorrow towards Kanchanpur. Vice Chair Agni Prasad Sapkota also expressed optimism that unity among Maoist factions would soon be achieved.

Nepal Reaffirms Strong Stand Against Terrorism, Expresses Solidarity with India:

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba reaffirmed Nepal’s firm stance against terrorism, condemning all forms of terrorist activities during a tribute event organized by the Indian Embassy in Nepal. She emphasized Nepal’s commitment to peace and vowed that Nepal’s territory would not be used for terrorism against any nation. Dr. Rana expressed solidarity with India following the Pahalgam attack, recalling the historic ties between the two countries, and thanked India for repatriating the body of Nepali victim Sudip Neupane.

Protest Near Pakistani Embassy in Kathmandu Over Killing of Nepali Youth in Kashmir Attack:

The Nepal Citizens’ Campaign organized a protest near the Pakistani Embassy in Kathmandu to condemn the killing of Nepali youth Sudip Neupane in a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian Kashmir. The protest, held on Saturday, expressed strong solidarity against terrorism. Sudip Neupane, a 27-year-old from Butwal Sub-metropolitan City-14, was among the victims of the attack. Demonstrators near the embassy called for justice and denounced terrorism, highlighting the need for international efforts against such violence.

Former King Gyanendra Condemns Terrorist Attack in Pahalgam, Expresses Condolence:

Former King Gyanendra Shah has expressed condolences to the victims of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, including a Nepali citizen. In his message, Shah condemned the attack, emphasizing that such heinous acts against the Hindu community should be globally condemned. He reiterated the Vedic Hindu principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and called such crimes sinful and against religious beliefs. He also extended his sympathies to the Indian government and urged worldwide condemnation of the incident.

Congress MP Maya Rai Arrested Over Cooperative Fraud in Kathmandu:

Nepali Congress lawmaker Maya Rai was arrested on Saturday from Kapan over her involvement in the Swarnalakshmi Cooperative fraud. Despite confirmed allegations, she had long evaded arrest under political protection. A former executive at the cooperative, Rai allegedly embezzled depositor funds and had been receiving salary while absconding. Public pressure intensified after she secretly attended Parliament on Friday. Following the media exposure, authorities moved to arrest her.

Ministry of Education and Teachers’ Federation Agree to Continue Dialogue Amid Ongoing Protest:

The Ministry of Education and representatives of the Nepal Teachers’ Federation have agreed to resolve the ongoing teachers’ agitation through dialogue. In a meeting on Saturday, Education Minister Raghuji Pant and Federation leaders discussed the teachers’ demands, particularly the enactment of a progressive School Education Act. Federation chair Laxmikishor Subedi emphasized that the primary goal of the movement is the promulgation of the Act. The teachers have been striking nationwide since April 7, pressing the government to pass a new education law based on past agreements. Both parties committed to continuing discussions to resolve the issues.

KMC Faces Operational Setback as Executive Meetings Remain Inactive for Four Months:

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has failed to hold its monthly executive meetings for the past four months, with the last meeting held on December 23, 2024. Deputy Mayor Sunita Dangol attributed the delay to tensions between Mayor Balena Shah, herself, ward chairpersons, and Chief Administrative Officer Saroj Guragain. The absence of meetings has disrupted the city’s operations, affecting public accountability and communication. Dangol emphasized that even without a pressing agenda, meetings should be held regularly for institutional continuity. She also expressed concern over the lack of updates on ongoing issues in the metropolis.

Baburam Bhattarai Departs for India to Attend Progressive Nepali Society Convention:

Former Prime Minister and Chairman of Naya Shakti Party (NSP), Baburam Bhattarai, departed for India today to attend the convention of the Progressive Nepali Society India as a guest. The convention will take place in Faridabad starting Sunday. Bhattarai is accompanied by NSP Vice Chairperson Manushi Yami Bhattarai and NSP Secretary Sandesh Karki. According to Manushi Yami, Bhattarai arrived in India this afternoon to participate in the event.

Keen Interest in Taklakot as Humla District Resumes Issuance of Temporary Entry Passes for Business Travel:

The District Administration Office has resumed issuing temporary entry passes for Nepali citizens traveling to Taklakot in Tibet, China, for business purposes. This follows the seasonal reopening of access routes via the northern border of Namkha Rural Municipality in Humla district. So far, 374 new entry passes have been issued, and several old ones renewed. CDO Narayan Pandey reported that a total of 7,545 individuals have received passes. The reopening of the border is expected to boost cross-border trade and support livelihoods in the remote region, which faces challenging travel conditions due to snow during winter.

Veteran Nepali Congress Leader Tirtharam Dangol Passes Away at 77:

Former state minister for health and senior Nepali Congress leader Tirtharam Dangol passed away on Friday evening at 77 after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer and diabetes. A founding member of the Nepal Student Union, Dangol served as deputy mayor of Kathmandu Municipality (1986), a House of Representatives member (1999), and a Constituent Assembly member (2008). He played a key role in Nepal’s 2006 People’s Movement. Author of Kathmandu Congress Ra Tirtha Ram, he also established the Tej-Tirth Trust. His funeral took place on Saturday, following public tributes at the Nepali Congress central office in Sanepa.

Nepal Vows to Transform Lumbini into Global Spiritual Hub, Strengthening Buddhist Cultural Heritage:

Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Badri Pandey reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to developing Lumbini as a global center for spiritual study during the 4th Asian Buddhist Cultural Festival. He announced plans to integrate key religious sites like Ramgram, Devdaha, and Tilaurakot into a unified development plan, following Kenzo Tange’s master plan. Pandey emphasized preserving local identities and balancing development with nature. He also revealed plans to revive the international committee, originally proposed by former UN Secretary-General U Thant, and amend the Lumbini Development Fund Act to boost management and international tourism. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli attended the event.

PM Oli Urges Self-Reliance After MCC Termination News:

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said Nepal must not depend on foreign aid for development, referring to the termination of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) project by the United States. Speaking at a UML Parliamentary Party meeting, Oli noted that both MCC and USAID support had ended, stressing the need for Nepal to rely on itself. He also pointed out that U.S. pressure to implement MCC had caused major internal political conflict in Nepal.

GMR Capable of Managing Upper Karnali Financing, Says Investment Board Panel:

The Investment Board’s expert committee has recommended GMR manage the Upper Karnali project’s financial arrangements, despite India’s central bank rejecting IREDA’s 5% equity proposal. GMR, SJVN, IREDA, and NEA are key shareholders in the 900 MW project. GMR submitted documentation claiming secured investments from Indian and Nepali banks. A final decision is expected at the Board’s meeting on Sunday. GMR was initially awarded the Upper Karnali project in 2008 under a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model.

NOC to Implement Dual Pricing for Cooking Gas:

Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) is preparing to sell cooking gas under a dual pricing system, offering subsidies for household users while charging commercial users full price. In collaboration with Rastriya Banijya Bank, NOC is developing software to link consumers’ citizenship and bank accounts for the subsidy refund. The system, set for trial in Asar and full implementation next fiscal year, aims to address monthly losses of Rs. 1.14 billion from LPG sales.

Tribhuvan International Airport Handles Over 1.18 Million Passengers in Q1 2025:

Tribhuvan International Airport served more than 1.18 million passengers in the first three months of 2025, reaffirming its position as Nepal’s busiest airport. The airport recorded 7,443 flight movements, with slight fluctuations across January, February, and March.

It also managed significant cargo volumes, transporting over 6.23 million tons, comprising both imports and exports. Officials noted that while February saw a slight dip in operations compared to January, March witnessed a recovery in passenger and flight numbers.

Everest Climbers Must Summit 7,000m Peak:

The new Tourism Act 2081 mandates that climbers must first summit a mountain over 7,000 meters before receiving permission to climb Mount Everest. Registered in the National Assembly, the law aims to manage Everest expeditions, reduce overcrowding, and ensure climbers have prior experience. Nepal has about 80 peaks above 7,000 meters, including eight over 8,000 meters. The rule will take effect once the Act is passed and published in the official Gazette.

Doubt Looms Over 14th South Asian Games Amid India-Pakistan Tensions:

After Nepal hosted the 13th South Asian Games in 2019, Pakistan was announced as the next host, but concerns emerged about feasibility. Following the recent terrorist attack in Kashmir, relations between India and Pakistan have deteriorated sharply, casting serious doubts over the 14th SAG. Although preparations were underway, skepticism remained, especially given India’s longstanding refusal to send sports teams to Pakistan. There are now real fears that the 14th SAG may never happen, leaving many Nepali athletes without a chance to compete.

‘Woolen Sweater’ Boosts Promotions with Grand Pokhara Event Ahead of May 9 Release:

Ahead of its May 9 global release, the Nepali film “Woolen Sweater” has accelerated its promotional activities, hosting a major event by Fewa Lake in Pokhara. Singer and music director Sujan Chapagain performed live, while tributes were paid to folk legend Jhalakman Gandharva. The event featured actors Bipin Karki, Pariksha Limbu, Alex Paras, and Mao Tse Gurung, among others. Three new film posters were unveiled. The movie, a realistic social drama, features a strong ensemble cast and will continue promotions in Dharan next.

‘Paribandh’ Music Video Captures a Heartbreaking Tale of Love and Responsibility:

The emotional music video “Paribandh”, sung and written by Suren Gautam with music by Kalyan Singh, has been released. Directed by Peter Gurung and starring Saku Shah and Lomas Sharma, the story captures the tragic love journey of Dev and Kavya, separated by life’s hardships despite deep affection. Years later, a silent reunion rekindles old emotions, but they part ways once again. The song highlights that separation often stems not from lack of love but from the weight of responsibilities.

‘Jante Bakhro’ Releases Second Song ‘Angurko Jhoppo’

The second song “Angurko Jhoppo” from the Nepali film “Jante Bakhro” has been released, featuring vocals by Mahesh Kafle and Asmita Adhikari. Lead actors Asif Shah and Garima Sharma star in the romantic music video. Directed by Simosh Sunuwar, the social comedy also features Saugat Malla and a strong supporting cast.

Lalitpur City FC Defends NSL Title, Wins 2-1 Against Pokhara Thunders:

Lalitpur City FC has won the third season of the Nepal Super League (NSL), defeating Pokhara Thunders 2-1 to retain the title. Imoh Ezekiel and Papa Kebele scored for Lalitpur, while Sudhir Rai netted for Pokhara. Lalitpur’s victory marks their second championship win. The team earned 8 million rupees, and Pokhara Thunders, as the runner-up, received 3 million rupees. The match was held at Dasarath Stadium, with both teams showcasing strong performances throughout.

Dhangadhi FC’s Mohammad Hijazi Becomes Top Scorer in NSL History:

Dhangadhi FC’s forward Mohammad Hijazi has been crowned the top scorer of the Nepal Super League (NSL). The Lebanese player scored five goals in the third edition and four goals in the second edition, making him the highest scorer in NSL history with a total of nine goals. For his outstanding performance, Hijazi was awarded a cash prize of one lakh rupees. His consistent goal-scoring form across two seasons has set a new record in the league.

Pope Francis Laid to Rest in Rome as Hundreds of Thousands Mourn:

Pope Francis was laid to rest on Saturday at Rome’s Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore after a public funeral Mass at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. Leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy were scheduled to attend. About 400,000 mourners gathered, many arriving before dawn. Francis had revised and simplified the funeral rites to reflect his papal priorities, emphasizing humility, inclusion, and compassion, with convicts and migrants participating in the final procession.

Deadly Explosion at Iran’s Shahid Rajaee Port Leaves Four Dead, Hundreds Injured:

At least four people died and over 500 were injured after a massive explosion rocked the Shahid Rajaee port in Bandar Abbas, southern Iran, on Saturday. The blast, which damaged offices and shattered windows kilometres away, also triggered a major fire. Authorities have not yet determined the cause. Emergency crews are battling the blaze, while hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties. Shahid Rajaee, a key port handling over 72 million tonnes of goods annually, remains critically impacted.

Putin Declares Complete Victory in Kursk as Ukraine Suffers Heavy Losses:

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the complete defeat of Ukrainian forces in Kursk Region, following months of heavy fighting. Russian General Valery Gerasimov confirmed the liberation of Gornal village and stated that Ukrainian plans to disrupt Russia’s Donbass offensive had failed. Early Russian counterattacks isolated and destroyed Ukraine’s spearhead. North Korean forces reportedly assisted Russia. Ukraine suffered major losses, with over 76,000 troops killed or wounded and more than 7,700 military assets, including Western-equipped units, destroyed.