KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ evening briefing, bringing you the day’s most important developments from Nepal and across the globe. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we deliver a concise roundup of the top news you need to know.

NC Not Anyone’s Private Company: General Secretary Thapa

General Secretary of the Nepali Congress, Gagan Thapa, has said the NC is not anyone’s private company.  “Didn’t they have to seek clarification before taking action? The central committee is dissolved. This special general convention (SGC) is legitimate, for a majority of the general convention representatives have participation in it,” he commented. General Secretary Thapa made such reaction to the action taken by the central committee meeting of the NC to them. Thapa and another General Secretary Sharma and Joint General Secretary Pharmulla Mansoor have been ousted by the NC central committee for five years for organizing SGC. General Secretary of the Nepali Congress, Gagan Kumar Thapa, has called on the general convention representatives to stand for trust and discretion.  Addressing the special general convention (SGC) after the central committee ousted them on Wednesday evening, Thapa argued the party’s authenticity lies in the SGC based on constitution, law, party’s statute. So, the party is not divided at all, he reminded. “SGC is called at a crucial time. We must stand for truth,” he said, accusing the party central committee of sending a letter of action against them to the Election Commission by indulging us in discussions while we were discussing for conclusion of the SGC. It was wrong. The NC’s transformation campaign in line with youth aspiration can not be stopped, he underscored.

Action Does Not Count: General Secretary Sharma

Similarly, another General Secretary Sharma observed that the action taken by the NC central committee does not count when SGC is the rightful event of the party.  He, however, said the dispute in the party would be resolved through the Election Commission, constitution and party’s statute.  Joint General Secretary Mansoor viewed the major mandate of SGC is the selection of a new leadership and preparation of a policy. “It is no more a time to run party in diktat. Youths should be persuaded and led well. The rage of youths won’t be stopped by any conspiracy,” he added. Earlier, the NC central committee took action against Thapa, Sharma and Mansoor, on the charge of violating party discipline. Central member and Head of the Publicity Department, Min Bishwakarma, said that the Central Committee meeting of the party held today in Sanepa and chaired by Acting President of the party, Purna Bahadur Khadka, expelled them from party membership for five years on charges of engaging in activities against the party’s statute and interests. General Secretary Thapa and Sharma, along with Joint General Secretary Mansur, are accused of leading the special convention called by the NC’s special convention supporters, as well as participating in the process of moving forward with the election to select new leadership of the party through the event.

NC’s Deuba Faction Expels Three Including Gagan Thapa and Bishwa Prakash Sharma From NC for Five Years

The Sher Bahadur Deuba faction of the Nepali Congress (NC) has taken disciplinary action against Gagan Kumar Thapa, Bishwa Prakash Sharma and Farmullah Mansoor, expelling them from the party for five years. A Central Committee meeting of the Deuba faction took the decision this afternoon, leveling various charges against Thapa, Sharma and Mansoor. The Central Committee has expelled them from the party for five years, stripping them of even general membership of the party. Thapa and Sharma are general secretaries of the Nepali Congress, while Mansoor is a co–general secretary. The two general secretaries had called a special general convention at Bhrikutimandap starting from January 11. However, the special general convention of the party had already dissolved the Central Committee just yesterday (Tuesday). The Nepali Congress had fixed its regular general convention for May 2026.

Attorney General Drops Organized Crime and Money Laundering Charges Against RSP President Rabi Lamichhane

Attorney General has decided to withdraw organized crime and money laundering charges against Rabi Lamichhane, chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), significantly narrowing the criminal cases pending against Rabi Lamichhane. Attorney General Sabita Bhandari said the decision was taken in response to an application filed by Lamichhane. Under the revised charges, prosecutors will proceed only with cases related to cooperative fraud, while allegations of organized crime and money laundering will be dropped. According to the Attorney General’s decision, indictments filed at district courts in Kaski, Kathmandu, Rupandehi, Parsa and Chitwan will be amended under Section 36 of the Criminal Procedure Code of 2017. The amendment removes organized crime and money laundering charges against Lamichhane, while maintaining fraud and cooperative fraud charges. Lamichhane was first charged at the Kaski District Court in connection with alleged fraud involving the Surya Darshan Cooperative, along with organized crime and money laundering. Similar charges were later filed in multiple districts over alleged misappropriation of depositors’ funds from various savings and credit cooperatives.

Over 4,000 Upper Dolpa Voters Likely to Miss March 5 HoR Election

As many as 4,366 voters from Upper Dolpa are likely to be unable to cast their ballots in the upcoming House of Representatives (HoR) election scheduled for March 5. Dolpa, a mountainous and remote district of Karnali Province, is the largest district in Nepal by area, covering 7,899 square kilometers. Residents of Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality, Chharka Tangsong Rural Municipality and Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality areas collectively known as Upper Dolpa migrate seasonally for about six months starting in mid-November. During winter, heavy snowfall and extreme cold force locals to move to Lower Dolpa and nearby Terai regions. At present, no voters are living in these highland settlements, and all access routes have remained closed due to snowfall from October to December. As a result, it is unlikely that voters will be able to return to their villages in time for the election. Chair of Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality, Dhawa Samduk Gurung said that in such circumstances, the state should make alternative arrangements to ensure voting rights for the people of Upper Dolpa. He emphasized that they are citizens of Nepal and should not be deprived of their right to vote.

It is Responsibility of All to Make Election Successful: Home Minister

Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal has said that making the election successful is the responsibility of everyone involved in the security agencies. Addressing the provincial-level security seminar held today in Janakpurdham by the Federal Ministry of Home Affairs and the Madhesh Province Ministry of Home, Communication, and Law, he stated that the House of Representatives election on March 5 will be conducted impartially. He said, “All units of the security forces should seriously engage in their areas of responsibility to ensure a free and fair election.” Urging the political parties, civil society, and journalists to ensure a successful election, the Home Minister requested the concerned parties not to engage in activities that spread conflict in society. He also warned that those who violate the prevailing laws will face action. His remarks were aimed at the misuse of social media. Stating that the incumbent government was formed according to the wishes of the Gen Z, the Home Minister clarified that it is the government’s mandate to ensure good governance and conduct elections on the scheduled date. He also instructed the security personnel to be deployed in the field with high morale and to fulfill the r

CIT’s Net Profit last Fiscal Year was Over Rs 1.25 Billion

The Citizen Investment Trust (CIT) recorded a net profit of slightly over Rs 1.25 billion after tax in the last fiscal year. Of the total amount, Rs 251.2 million was allocated to the general reserve fund, while the remaining profit was distributed among its members as a bonus. This information was shared during the 31st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the CIT, which concluded here on Wednesday. The AGM endorsed the distribution of a five percent bonus share and an eight percent cash dividend from the income of the last fiscal year. It was stated that while the CIT’s net fund collection from various savings programs stood at Rs 266.65 billion in the last fiscal year, the savings mobilization balance reached Rs 296.89 billion by the end of the first three months (mid-October 2025) of the current fiscal year. The AGM also endorsed the Trust’s annual report, the profit and loss account for the fiscal year 2081/82, the cash flow statement, and other related financial statements. The meeting unanimously elected Narayan Prasad Ghimire as the representative of the general shareholders.

Trade Affected Due to Irregular and Sporadic Opening of Tinker Trade Point

The Tinker transit point at Nepal-China border in Darchula district that is vital for trade, cultural relations and pilgrimage for the people of both countries has remained largely inactive since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, thereby affecting the local trade. Irregular and limited opening of the border crossing have severely disrupted the local trade, livelihood and pilgrimage, locals report. Local residents and traders bearing the brunt of economic and employment loss complain that they feel neglected by the State. Yogesh Bohora, a local trader from Byas Rural Municipality-1 and member of the Nepal-China Himalayan Friendship Society, lamented that irregular operation of the Tinker border point has created a serious problems for business. Although the border point was partially opened for the ongoing fiscal year 2025/26, it was only opened for altogether 10 to 15 days, making the transportation of goods near to impossible. He emphasizes that this border point, which bears religious and cultural significance, should be regularly operated.

Banks Further Lower Interest Rates as Surplus Liquidity Pressures Market

A dozen banks have lowered their interest rates for the month of Magh (mid-January to mid-February). Due to a surge in excess liquidity, banks have reduced interest rates on fixed deposits. Compared to Poush (mid-December to mid-January), the average interest rate on individual fixed deposits for Magh has declined by 0.14 percentage points. In Poush, the average rate stood at 4.8 percent. Banks that have reduced the maximum interest rate on fixed deposits for Magh include Agricultural Development Bank, Everest Bank, Siddhartha Bank, Sanima Bank, Laxmi Sunrise Bank, Himalayan Bank, Machhapuchchhre Bank, Citizens International Bank, Kumari Bank, Nepal SBI Bank, and Standard Chartered Bank. Among these, Himalayan Bank and Machhapuchchhre Bank have made the largest cuts in interest rates. For Magh, the interest rates on individual fixed deposits are as follows: Agricultural Development Bank at 4.40 percent, Everest Bank at 4.40 percent, Kumari Bank at 4.43 percent, Nepal SBI Bank at 4.40 percent, Laxmi Sunrise Bank at 4.50 percent, Citizens Bank at 4.50 percent, Prabhu Bank at 4.55 percent, Machhapuchchhre Bank at 4.50 percent, Standard Chartered Bank at 4.36 percent, Himalayan Bank at 5 percent, and Sanima Bank at 4.55 percent.

Rohit Kattel Joins Film Mirmire as Executive Producer

Rohit Kattel, who has been actively involved in film distribution through his company RR Films, has taken on the role of executive producer for the upcoming film Mirmire. Kattel, who is also the operator of RR Films, is handling additional responsibilities in the project as both distributor and executive producer. Scheduled for release on Magh 1, the film stars Dayahang Rai and Sirjana Ninglekhu in lead roles, while singer Prakash Saput appears as a principal cast member. Kattel said he joined Mirmire with the aim of bringing the story of an ordinary Nepali household to the big screen. Speaking about the film, he said, “The story of this film represents every Nepali home. When you receive an offer to produce a film with a strong story, there is no reason to turn it down.” He added that the emotional father–daughter narrative was the main reason he decided to become a producer. “The emotional ups and downs between a father and daughter deeply moved me,” he said.

Shooting of Action Drama Film Hunter Completed

The shooting of the action drama film Hunter has been completed. Filming took 45 days and was carried out across various locations in western Nepal. The film marks the directorial debut of Jivan Singh and is presented by Catch Cock Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. Singh has also written the screenplay and edited the film himself. Inspired by real-life events, Hunter presents a story rooted in Sudurpaschim, western Nepal. Director Singh said that while the film is based on real incidents, they have been creatively adapted into a fictional narrative. Arun Chhetri appears in the lead role, with performances by Prakash Shah, Garima Sharma, Saroj Khanal, Ruja Raut, Supragya Sharma, Ramesh Budhathoki, Sushil Pokhrel, Roshani Dahal, Soni Lagun, and Geeta Adhikari. The film’s cinematography is by Krishna Thapa, with action choreography by Shukra Shah. Choreography is handled by Bikram Swar and Sanjay Khimjim, while the music is composed by Babul Giri. Royal Bhimsen serves as the executive producer.

National League Football: Church Boys and Bhagawati Play Draw

The Martyr Memorial ‘A’ Division League Champion, Church Boys United, has played draw against Shree Bhagawati Club in the National League Football tournament beginning from today. In the match played today at the Satdobato-based All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) Complex, the Church Boys and Shree Bhgawati played 1-1 goal draw. Striker Harihar Budhamagar scored a goal for Bhagawati in the final minute of the first half. Church boys captain Erik Bishta made an equalizing goal in the 65th minute of the tournament. Both the teams shared one point each from the match. In another match held today at the same ground, Friends Club won the match 3-1 against Kankre Bihar Club. –

Friends Club Kicks Off National League with 3–1 Comeback Win

Friends Club began their National League campaign on a high note with a 3–1 comeback victory over Kakrebihar Youth Club on Wednesday. The match, held at the ANFA Complex in Satdobato, earned Friends their first three points of the season. Prashant Laksham, Pravesh Basnet, and Ashish Chapagain scored for Friends, while Kakrebihar benefited from an early own goal. Kakrebihar initially took the lead in the 6th minute when Kamal Shrestha of Friends inadvertently scored an own goal. However, the lead was short-lived. In first-half injury time, Prashant Laksham equalized from a pass by Mausam Subba, leveling the score at 1–1. Friends went ahead in the 59th minute when Pravesh Basnet scored, making it 2–1. Ashish Chapagain sealed the 3–1 victory in the 90th minute with a goal assisted by Kamal Shrestha, ensuring a strong start to Friends Club’s National League campaign.The film is produced by Mamta Singh, Govinda Rokka, and Raj Bhatt, with Manish Chand as co-producer. The release date has not yet been finalized, and Director Singh stated that the official release announcement will be made only after post-production work is completed.

Nepal Women Crushed by Ireland in T20 Warm-up, Lose by 99 Runs

Nepal, preparing for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, suffered a humiliating loss to Ireland in a warm-up match. In Wednesday’s game, Nepal was defeated by 99 runs. Chasing Ireland’s target of 201 runs, Nepal managed only 101 runs, losing all wickets with one over remaining. Nepal’s middle-order batter Kavita Joshi top-scored with 28 runs off 29 balls, hitting 6 fours. Opener Bindu Rawal scored 25, while captain Indu Barma managed 12 runs. The rest of the batting lineup failed to make an impact. For Ireland, Orla Prendergast, Lara McBride, Arlene Kelly, and Amy Maguire each took 2 wickets. Earlier, at Lower Mulpani Cricket Ground, Ireland won the toss and chose to bat first, scoring 200 runs for 7 wickets in their 20 overs. Ireland opener Gaby Lewis scored 77 runs off 38 balls, hitting 12 fours and 2 sixes. Orla Prendergast contributed 62 runs off 29 balls with 8 fours and 3 sixes. Both players retired hurt during the innings. Other contributions included Lea Paul (21 retired hurt), Sarah Forbes (15), and Arlene Kelly (11).

More Migrants are Dying in ICE Detention Under Trump

The confrontation tactics used by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have been in the spotlight since the fatal shooting of protester Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on January 7. But data released by the agency shows that immigration detention centers can also be deadly environments for those being held in them. Press releases from ICE reveal that a number of people have died in custody in the just first few days of 2026 — immediately following a year when migrant detainee deaths reached a 20-year high and the number of ICE detentions increased exponentially. More than 68,000 adults were in ICE detention as of the end of December, up from about 36,000 in December 2023, agency data shows.

Bangladesh Suspends on Arrival Visa Ahead of Elections

Bangladesh suspended Visa on Arrival (VoA) from January 15 to February 15 ahead of general elections and referendum. Citizens of neighboring countries like Bhutan and Nepal used to receive on-arrival visa facilities from Bangladesh. However, the decision to suspend that arrangement has now been officially communicated to those countries’ governments. A senior official of the Bangladesh government has stated that from January 15 to February 15, Bangladesh will suspend the issuance of on-arrival visas for one month. This applies to all countries that normally receive on-arrival visa facilities from Bangladesh. Although he did not explicitly state the reason for this decision, it is widely assumed that it has been taken with the upcoming national parliamentary elections in mind. Since the election campaign will begin on January 22 and major party leaders will travel across the country to hold rallies, the government is likely taking this step to enhance security in border areas and prevent any potential violence during the election period. This kind of measure has reportedly been taken in the past during elections as well. In addition, Bangladesh has also suspended the issuance of visas from its key missions located in India. Officials have stated that there is no likelihood of resuming these visa services until the election is over. The national parliamentary elections and a public referendum on certain reforms are scheduled to be held in Bangladesh on February 12.

8 Killed, Over 30 Missing Following Landslide in Eastern DRC

Eighteen people were killed and more than 30 are missing due to a landslide in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), triggered by heavy rains. Local authorities said the landslide occurred in the village of Burutsi in North Kivu province, eastern Congo. They noted that the landslide happened after several hours of torrential rain, cutting off the main road between the main city of Goma and the provincial capital, Walikale. Local officials said they have requested assistance from the government, but the road closure to Goma has hampered the government’s ability to respond quickly, and rocks and mud have hampered the search for survivors.