From ballot box to courtroom, Nepal debates its constitutional future

The task force formed by the government, led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen), to prepare a discussion paper on constitutional amendment is currently holding consultations with various stakeholders. The task force, established by a Cabinet meeting held on March 30, has been engaging with representatives of various political parties, constitutional experts, civil society leaders, and Gen Z leaders.

Meanwhile, the task force, convened by Asim Shah, the Prime Minister’s political advisor, has faced considerable criticism. Critics argue that such a serious matter as a constitutional amendment was addressed hastily, even within the second Cabinet meeting, and that the Prime Minister had not consulted other parties represented in parliament before forming the task force. In fact, parliament had not even been called into session when the decision was made. The decision to form the amendment task force and to call the budget session was announced simultaneously, which drew widespread objection.