KATHMANDU: Preparations are underway for former Prime Minister and UML Chairman K.P. Sharma Oli and former Home Minister and Congress leader Ramesh Lekhak to approach the Supreme Court tomorrow with a habeas corpus petition challenging their arrest earlier today.

Meanwhile, the Nepal Police, which arrested them under an urgent warrant in a criminal case, will appear before the Kathmandu District Court tomorrow seeking an extension of their custody for further investigation.

Oli and Lekhak were taken into custody early this morning from their residences by the District Police Range, Kathmandu, based on a letter issued by the police. The letter cited the need for their immediate arrest “as part of the investigation into charges including threats to life.”

The Supreme Court generally prioritizes habeas corpus petitions, and the case is expected to be heard the following day. At the District Court, lawyers are likely to argue that extensive investigation should proceed without unnecessarily keeping the accused in custody.

Following this discussion, the judge will decide whether continued detention is warranted. The Supreme Court is also expected to issue its stance on the matter within a few days, after reviewing the legal grounds and rationale.