20th session of national assembly convenes, emphasis on coordination and good governance

Kathmandu: The 20th session of the National Assembly under the federal parliament has officially begun. Speaker Narayan Prasad Dahal highlighted that the National Assembly has established itself as a mature, restrained, and coordinating house, expressing confidence that it will maintain this standard in the days ahead.

Speaker Dahal noted that as per the constitutional provision requiring one-third of the National Assembly members to be replaced every two years, 19 outgoing members were recently bid farewell while 18 new members were welcomed. He expressed confidence that the participation of newly elected members will make parliamentary work more effective and prosperous.

Referring to the mandate obtained from the House of Representatives elections held on Falgun 21, Dahal emphasized that the parliament’s role has become more responsible in the context of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSWP) securing a single majority and the formation of the government under Prime Minister Balendra Shah. He underscored that in a democratic system, it is the duty of the parliament and its members to guide the government toward good governance, transparency, accountability, and effective service delivery.

Chairman Dahal described the cooperation between the National Assembly and the House of Representatives as the cornerstone of democratic practice and stressed the importance of strengthening coordination between the two houses. He added that the National Assembly serves as a representative institution reflecting the balance of the federal structure and long-term national vision.

Due to damage to the Federal Parliament Building in Baneshwor and the ongoing construction of a new building at Singha Durbar, the current session is being conducted in the old building. Dahal expressed hope that the new building, equipped with modern technology, will be completed soon.

Preparations are also underway to conduct an orientation program for newly elected members, which Dahal said will help make parliamentary practice more systematic. He expressed confidence that members will participate actively and responsibly in deliberations on bills, policy issues, and matters of national concern.

Highlighting the importance of healthy debate, diversity of views, and a consensus-based culture, Chairman Dahal urged members to engage in dignified and factual discussions and to prioritize the national interest above political differences.

In today’s session, the agenda included setting the date for the election of the Deputy Chairman of the National Assembly and filling vacancies in the chairmanship of the National Assembly’s thematic committees, based on instructions received from the President.