Tampering with cooling-off period: Speaker holds discussions to form an investigative committee

Kathmandu – Regarding allegations of tampering with the “cooling-off period” provisions in the Federal Civil Service Bill 2080, Speaker Devraj Ghimire held discussions with the leaders of the major parties to form an investigative committee.

At his office in Singha Durbar on Thursday afternoon, Speaker Ghimire met with CPN‑UML Chief Whip Mahesh Kumar Bartaula, Nepali Congress Chief Whip Shyam Kumar Ghimire, and Maoist Centre Chief Whip Hitraj Pandey. Deputy Speaker Indira Rana was also present.

He proposed forming a committee under Rule 180 of the House Rules 2079, outlining its scope, timeline, and membership, and requested suggestions from the parties.

All major parties agreed that a parliamentary probe committee would be appropriate and emphasized that the issue of tampering lies within legislative jurisdiction—thus, there was no need for the government’s stance.

The leaders pledged to consult with their parties and inform the Speaker. Ahead of the next House meeting on Asar 23, the parties—through consensus and guidance from the Procedure Advisory Committee—will table a proposal for the committee.

Additionally, State Affairs Committee chair Ramhari Khatiwada shared informal updates on the decisions from Wednesday’s meeting, though the Federal Parliament Secretariat noted that no formal notice has been issued.