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.

RSP-Ujyalo Nepal Party Unity Collapses After 12 Days Over Leadership Disputes:
The short-lived political alliance between Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and Ujyalo Nepal Party, led by Kulman Ghising, collapsed just 12 days after a unity agreement on Poush 14. The pact, signed by Raswapa chief Ravi Lamichhane and Ujyalo Nepal’s Anup Kumar Upadhyay, faced immediate hurdles as Ghising demanded the top deputy chair position, 30% representation in proportional and direct candidates, and integration of key leaders. Raswapa leadership cited these demands as excessive and incompatible with party norms. Following the split, Ghising declared himself president of Ujyalo Nepal Party, which now plans to independently finalize proportional and direct candidates ahead of upcoming elections.

Ghising Describes 12 Painful Days After Merger With Rastriya Swatantra Party:
Ujiyalo Nepal Party chairman Kulman Ghising described the 12 days following the party’s merger with the Rastriya Swatantra Party as extremely painful. Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, Ghising claimed that the period kept the party engaged but sidelined, with their supporters enduring significant distress. He alleged that the Rastriya Swatantra Party organized local party entry programs and repeatedly involved Ujiyalo Nepal members in procedural matters, creating a stressful environment. Personally, Ghising admitted the days were confusing and challenging, caught between moving forward, which seemed impossible, and retreating, which he felt would not be permitted by the other party.

Rabi Lamichhane Says Deal With Kulman Ghising Collapsed Due to Repeated Changing Demands:
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane said the party decided not to proceed with its agreement with Ujyaalo Nepal after patron Kulman Ghising repeatedly changed his demands. Briefing the party secretariat, Lamichhane said unity became impossible as new conditions were raised almost daily, even after key agreements were reached. He stated that Ghising focused on power-sharing, positions, and placement of individuals rather than collective goals. Lamichhane added that a proposed division of responsibilities—him leading the party, Balendra Shah handling government, and Ghising overseeing infrastructure reforms—was also rejected, leaving no basis for continued cooperation.

Political Clashes, Harsh Weather Identified as Key Security Challenges Ahead of Nepal’s March 5 Elections:
Administrative and security officials from various districts have identified potential political clashes and harsh weather as major security challenges for Nepal’s March 5 elections. At a Bagmati Province-level security workshop in Lalitpur, officials highlighted possible confrontations between established and emerging political parties as the primary concern. The Ministry of Home Affairs has conducted similar workshops across six provinces to review security arrangements. Officials also noted extreme cold in some Himalayan areas could complicate election management, affecting personnel deployment, voter participation, and logistics. Reports indicated no immediate security threats, and authorities aim to implement integrated security plans effectively across all provinces.

Nepali Congress Special Convention to Begin Amid Institutional Opposition:
Despite opposition from party president Sher Bahadur Deuba and most establishment leaders, the Nepali Congress will hold its special convention starting tomorrow, Poush 27–28, at Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu. Organized under the call of General Secretaries Gagan Thapa and Bishwprakash Sharma, the convention claims the support of 60% of delegates, up from 54.58% who initially signed the demand on Asar 29. Delegates from districts including Tanahun, Jhapa, Dhanusha, Rupandehi, and Manang have already arrived. Former Deputy Party Chair Gopalman Shrestha has also publicly endorsed the convention. The event will begin at 1 p.m. with a rally from various regions.

Nepali Congress Secretary Generals Faction Claims 60% Delegate Support for Second Special General Convention:
The organizing committee of Nepali Congress’s second special general convention, starting Sunday in Bhadrakuti Mandap, claims 60% of delegates support the event. At a press conference on Saturday, central member Ajaybabu Shivakoti said support has grown from the initial 2,488 signatures, with delegates from districts like Tanahun, Jhapa, Dhanusha, Rupandehi, and Manang openly endorsing the convention. The event aims to implement party statutes, strengthen party unity, and avoid fragmentation. Party president Sher Bahadur Deuba has been invited as chief guest, and even those not supporting the convention have been invited. The inauguration will begin at 1 p.m. on Sunday.

Nepali Congress Secretary Generals to Present Two Separate Reports at Special Convention:
Nepali Congress’s upcoming special convention on January 11-12 in Kathmandu will feature two separate reports. General Secretary Gagan Thapa is set to present a contemporary political report, while fellow General Secretary Bishwprakash Sharma will submit an organizational report. The convention, called under the joint initiative of Thapa and Sharma, will include extensive public mobilization and rallies organized by the Convention Management Committee from six different locations. Preparations at the Bhrikutimandap venue are underway, with stage construction, hall decoration, and other technical arrangements in progress to accommodate delegates and participants. The event marks a key milestone in party deliberations and leadership planning.

Congress Leaders Oppose Special General Convention, Urge Focus on Upcoming Elections:
Five provincial and 47 district chairpersons of Nepali Congress have opposed the special general convention called by party secretaries Gagan Thapa and Bishwprakash Sharma. Ahead of the proposed convention, they issued a joint statement emphasizing the need to focus on the upcoming elections on Falgun 21, urging the party to act responsibly for constitutional protection and political stability. They argued that the 15th regular general convention is already scheduled for Baisakh 28–31, making a special convention unnecessary. The statement also noted that only the central committee has the authority to call a special convention and stressed dialogue to maintain party unity.

Former Nepali Congress Vice-Chair Gopalman Shrestha Backs Special General Convention Against Deuba:
Former Nepali Congress Vice-Chair Gopalman Shrestha has declared full support for the upcoming special general convention, citing intolerance toward party president Sher Bahadur Deuba’s alleged authoritarianism. Speaking to RatoPati, Shrestha said he will no longer merely support the convention but will fully commit, regretting his role in the 14th general convention that enabled Deuba’s rise. After discussions with General Secretaries Gagan Thapa and Bishwprakash Sharma, Shrestha decided to leave Deuba’s establishment faction. He criticized Deuba for consolidating all powers after returning from Singapore despite delegating acting authority earlier, pledging his complete cooperation to ensure the convention’s success.

Leaders Close to Krishna Prasad Sitaula Back Nepali Congress Special Convention:
Leaders close to Nepali Congress veteran Krishna Prasad Sitaula are increasingly supporting the upcoming special convention. In Sitaula’s home district Jhapa, leader Sudhir Shivakoti has publicly endorsed the convention, with nearly 70% of Jhapa delegates confirmed to participate. Shivakoti, former district secretary under Sitaula and two-term Jhapa party chair, emphasized the need to reclaim the party from corrupt elements and strengthen its internal democracy. A seasoned leader, Shivakoti also served in the 2070 Constituent Assembly and played a key role in the 2046 and 2062–63 people’s movements. He urged active support from both Kathmandu and the districts.

CPN (UML) Holds Second Central Committee Meeting in Lalitpur:
The second meeting of the CPN (UML) central committee elected from the party’s 11th National General Congress has commenced in Lalitpur. Chair KP Sharma Oli is scheduled to address current political developments, the party’s role, the upcoming general election, and preparations. Central committee member Surya Thapa stated that key agenda items include amending party bylaws according to the revised statute, reviewing the income and expenditure of the general congress, and approving decisions from the latest secretariat meetings. Party leaders are expected to discuss internal organization, policy implementation, and strategic plans to strengthen the party ahead of the elections.

KP Sharma Oli Hails 11th UML General Convention, Warns of Rising Political Polarization:
Nepal Communist Party (UML) Chair KP Sharma Oli stated that the party’s 11th general convention in Mangsir positively impacted national politics by strengthening internal democracy and party unity. Addressing the second central committee on Saturday, Oli said the convention helped counter anti-democratic forces, including efforts to undermine elections and democratic institutions. He warned that political polarization now revolves around restoring democracy versus legitimizing the destruction of democratic processes, rather than ideology. Criticizing populist actors exploiting public sentiment, Oli emphasized the need to protect democracy, the constitution, and national unity, calling for continued dialogue and cooperation among democratic forces ahead of future elections.

Former King Gyanendra Expresses Concern Over Nepal’s Future, Calls for National Responsibility:
Former King Gyanendra expressed deep concern and disappointment over Nepal’s current state, saying that while he once worried about the country not forming, today he fears it may not survive. In a video message on the eve of National Unity Day from Narayanhiti Palace, he urged all Nepalis to take responsibility for the nation’s future rather than relying on speeches or miracles. Reflecting on nearly two decades since leaving the throne, he said the monarchy had worked as a shared representative of all ethnicities and regions, safeguarding national unity, and stressed that Nepalis must act collectively to preserve the country.

Prachanda to Contest House of Representatives Election from Rukum East:
CPN coordinator and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ announced that he will contest the upcoming House of Representatives election from Rukum East. Speaking at a party event in Rukum West on Saturday, Dahal clarified that despite the event being held in Rukum West, his candidacy is confirmed for Rukum East. The program was attended by former Prime Minister and CPN co-coordinator Madhav Kumar Nepal. Dahal also announced that Gopal Sharma will be the party’s candidate from Rukum West. The general election is scheduled for Falgun 21, and the announcement marks the beginning of the party’s election preparations in the region.

Over 20% of Nepal’s Population Lives Below Poverty Line, NSO Report Shows:
The National Statistics Office (NSO) reports that 20.27% of Nepal’s population lives below the poverty line, based on the 2023 Small Area Estimation of Poverty. Using a new per capita annual expenditure threshold of Rs 72,908, 18.34% in urban areas and 24.66% in rural areas fall below the poverty line. Sudurpaschim Province has the highest poverty rate at 34.16%, while Gandaki Province is the lowest at 11.88%. At the local level, poverty ranges from 1.18% in Mustang’s Gharpajhong Rural Municipality to 77.89% in Junichande Rural Municipality, Jajarkot. Kathmandu has the largest number of people below the poverty line, though its rate is 6.87%.

Nepali Congress Mourns Passing of Veteran Leader and Journalist Homanath Dahal:
Nepali Congress expressed deep sorrow over the death of senior party leader and journalist Homanath Dahal at age 84, passing a condolence resolution during an emergency central committee meeting chaired by acting president Purna Bahadur Khadka. Dahal, a former member of the House of Representatives and ex-Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister, was a prominent journalist, former president of the Nepal Journalists Federation, editor-publisher of Rastrapukar Weekly, and former chair of Gorkhapatra Sansthan. Recognized for his leadership in democratic movements, often facing imprisonment, the party announced flags at half-mast, office closures, condolence books for 13 days, and a memorial in Okhaldhunga.

Rastriya Prajatantra Party Chair Rajendra Lingden Calls for New National Consensus to Restore Nepal’s Sovereignty:
Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) Chair Rajendra Lingden claimed Nepal’s decision-making has increasingly fallen under foreign influence, emphasizing the need for a new national consensus. Speaking at the RPP Tokha municipal convention on Saturday, Lingden warned that foreign involvement now extends from ministerial appointments to electoral alliances, placing Nepal in a dangerous geopolitical trap. He urged collaboration among the monarchy, political parties, and the Gen Z generation to ensure elections prioritize the nation over individual victories. Lingden highlighted ongoing unity discussions with ideologically aligned groups, asserting that RPP will emerge as an alternative force, strengthen internal cohesion, and safeguard the country from external interference.

IGP Dan Bahadur Karki Launches Traffic Accident Reduction Campaign, Calls for Public Participation:
Inspector General of Police Dan Bahadur Karki inaugurated the Traffic Accident Reduction Special Campaign and Traffic Week 2082 in Kathmandu, emphasizing Nepal Police’s continued dedication to citizen security despite challenges and damages suffered during the GenZ protests. IGP Karki urged that Traffic Week be treated as a public awareness campaign, stressing the need for compliance with traffic rules by drivers and pedestrians alike. Deputy Mayor Sunita Dangol highlighted violations by educated citizens and the general public. The campaign runs until January 17, and journalist Bimal Bahadur Bista was honored for his contributions to promoting traffic awareness and reporting on public interest matters.

Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang Makes Quiet Private Visit to Nepal for Religious Pilgrimage:
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (P.S. Golay) recently visited Nepal without any formal announcement, political meetings, or diplomatic programs, sparking curiosity. Arriving via Delhi-Kathmandu flight on Wednesday, he first visited the Manakamana Temple in Gorkha, then returned to Kathmandu, staying at a hotel overnight. On Friday, he visited Pashupatinath Temple, offered prayers, and planted a Parijat tree before returning to Delhi. According to his political advisor, the visit was entirely private and religious. Analysts note that while no political agenda was publicly visible, such visits strengthen a leader’s personal image, cultural diplomacy, and connection with public sentiment.

Nepal’s Private Sector Urges Government to Declare Businesses Strike-Free Zones:
Nepal’s private sector has renewed its demand for industrial and commercial areas to be declared strike- and shutdown-free zones, citing repeated damage during political protests. Speaking at the 67th general assembly of the Siddhartha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, business leaders said industries are routinely targeted by vandalism, arson, and looting, while the government fails to ensure security. FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal called attacks on businesses during political movements an unacceptable trend and urged an outright ban. Leaders stressed the private sector’s role in job creation and revenue generation, demanding urgent state action. Concerns were also raised over poor operation of Gautam Buddha and Pokhara international airports and the need for regional infrastructure and tourism-focused urban development.

Nepali Film ‘Kumari’ to Launch Nationwide Live Musical Concert Tour:
The upcoming Nepali romantic film ‘Kumari’, set to release on Magh 23, is being promoted through a nationwide live musical concert tour titled ‘Kumari Live Musical Concert with Keher and the Lunga’. The trailer was unveiled at a special event in Kathmandu featuring lead singer Keher Singh Limbu and his band, along with actors Abishek Khadka, Aakriti Rajbhandari, and director Dinesh Raut. Concerts will be held in Nepalgunj, Pokhara, Chitwan, Kathmandu, and Damak from Magh 1–17, combining film screenings with live music. Popular film songs, including ‘Doko Bunne Nigaalo Choyale’, will feature prominently, creating a festival-like celebration of music and cinema.

Nepali Film ‘Unko Sweater’ Becomes a Hit in India, Runs 51 Days Across Multiple Halls:
The Nepali romantic film ‘Unko Sweater’, a superhit in Nepal earning over NPR 110 million and running 51 days in more than 40 halls, has achieved the same milestone in India. Released on December 20, the film completed 51 days of continuous screening in six major halls, including Chandigarh’s PVR Central, Ludhiana’s PVR Avon City Mall, Siliguri’s INOX City Center, and Lucknow’s PVR Saharganj Mall. Starting from Gangtok, the film gained strong traction across Northeast India, including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Siliguri, and received a warm audience response in Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. The film stars Bipin Karki, Miruna Magar, Alex Paras, and others, with popular songs like Phool and Kafle boosting its success.

Daya Hang Rai’s ‘Mirmire’ Explores Father-Daughter Bond and Parental Sacrifice:
Actor Daya Hang Rai says his upcoming film ‘Mirmire’, releasing Magh 1, portrays not only the father-daughter relationship but also a parent’s struggles and sacrifices for a child’s bright future. While the story appears to be a family drama on the surface, Rai explains it delves into profound human emotions, highlighting a father’s concealed pain behind his daughter’s happiness. Directed by Yam Sherpa and produced under Yarsa Films, the movie features Rai alongside Prakash Saput, Sirjana Ninglekhu, Mao Tse Gurung, Chhulthim Gurung, and Bholaraj Sapkota, exploring heartfelt performances that compel viewers to reflect deeply beyond mere entertainment.

New Nepali Folk Song ‘Doodhai Fatessi’ Released by Bishnu Majhi and Rajanraj Sivakoti:
A fresh version of the popular Nepali folk song ‘Doodhai Fatessi’ has been released, featuring Bishnu Majhi’s iconic voice and the musical direction of Rajanraj Sivakoti. Originally sung by Majhi and Raju Pariyar with arrangement by BB Anuragi, the song is now reimagined with modern technology and a contemporary style. Sivakoti contributed to the lyrics, music, and vocals, with Shyam Shwet Rasaily providing musical arrangement. The music video, directed and choreographed by Mausam Himal, features Sivakoti, Sunisha Bajgain, Prabhat Pal Thakuri, and Juna Bishwakarma, with cinematography and editing by Pawan Susling, aiming to preserve the song’s legacy while appealing to new audiences.

New Diamond Youth Club Dominates Ninth KNP Nirolek Women’s Volleyball Tournament:
Tip Top New Diamond Youth Sports Club emerged victorious in the 9th KNP Nirolek National Women’s Volleyball Tournament, defeating defending champions Nepal Police Club 3-1 in the final. Pratibha Mali was named Best Player, receiving NPR 50,000. Her teammates also earned accolades: Sumitra Regmi – Best Blocker, Pragati Nath – Best Setter, and Coach Kumar – Best Coach. APF’s Mina Sunuwar won Best Spiker, Nepal Police’s Shanti Kala Tamang Best Libero, and Poonam Chand Best Server. New Diamond remained unbeaten, winning two titles in one week and a prize of NPR 500,000. Police finished second, APF third, and Army fourth.

Machhindra Reappoints Pravesh Katuwal as Head Coach for National League:
Machhindra FC has reappointed Pravesh Katuwal as head coach ahead of the upcoming National League. Katuwal previously led the club to back-to-back A Division League titles in the 2019–20 and 2021–22 seasons, establishing Machhindra as one of Nepal’s dominant domestic football teams. He had stepped away from the club after joining the Nepal national team coaching setup as an assistant to Vincenzo Alberto Annesse. With extensive domestic experience and a proven record of success, the club believes Katuwal’s return will significantly strengthen the squad. Machhindra expects a competitive and promising campaign under his leadership in the new season.

Nepal Announces 15-Member Squad for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier:
The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has named a 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, led by captain Indu Barma. The tournament will run from January 5 to February 21 at Tribhuvan and Mulpani grounds. The squad features experienced players like Pooja Mahat, Rubina Chhetri, and Sita Ranamagar, as well as emerging talents including Samjhana Khadka and Riya Sharma. Nepal will open against Thailand on January 18, followed by matches against the Netherlands, Zimbabwe, and Scotland. The top four teams from the qualifier will advance to the Women’s T20 World Cup in England.

APF Defeats Army to Secure Third Place in Sher Bahadur Khadka Memorial Volleyball:
APF Club secured third place in the Sher Bahadur Khadka Memorial National Women’s Volleyball Tournament by defeating Tribhuvan Army Club 3–0 in the departmental derby. Playing at the NSC Covered Hall, Tripureshwor, APF won in straight sets: 25–13, 25–23 and 25–18.

Prakrit Tamang, Soham Agrawal and Avani Rai to Represent Nepal at Faldo Junior Tour Asia Grand Final:
Prakrit Tamang, Soham Agrawal and Avani Rai have qualified to represent Nepal at the Faldo Junior Tour Asia Grand Final, to be held in Vietnam in March, after winning their respective age categories. Prakrit claimed the overall title and Boys’ 17–21 category, finishing with a total score of 9-over 213, edging out Swapnil Bhattarai by two strokes. Soham topped the Boys’ 12–16 category with 17-over 221, while Avani Rai emerged champion in the girls’ division, defeating Britain’s Emily Low Gludais by one stroke. Their performances secured Nepal’s place at the prestigious regional junior golf final.

Iran Protests Escalate as Rights Groups Report Dozens Killed Amid Internet Blackout:
Anti-government protests have spread across dozens of locations in Iran, with human rights groups reporting at least 50 protesters killed, including children. A near-total internet blackout and restrictions on foreign media have made verification difficult. Medics in Tehran and Shiraz told the BBC that hospitals are overwhelmed, with many patients suffering gunshot wounds, including to the head and eyes. Rights groups say more than 2,300 people have been arrested. Iranian authorities deny deaths in Tehran, while the UN and Western leaders expressed grave concern over the loss of life. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed to confront what he called “destructive elements.”

Trump Warns US Could Take Greenland ‘the Hard Way,’ Stirring Tensions With Denmark and NATO Allies:
US President Donald Trump has warned that Washington could acquire Greenland “the hard way” if necessary, arguing the strategically important island could otherwise fall under Russian or Chinese influence. Speaking at the White House, Trump said the US would act “whether they like it or not,” while expressing a preference for a negotiated deal. Denmark, which holds sovereignty over Greenland, has strongly rejected the idea, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warning of severe consequences for NATO unity. Reports suggest Washington has explored buying Greenland or offering financial incentives to residents, but polling shows overwhelming opposition among Greenlanders to joining the US.

Macron Faces Political Resistance Over Plan to Deploy French Troops to Ukraine:
French President Emmanuel Macron has briefed major political parties on plans to deploy French troops to Ukraine after a potential ceasefire, but the proposal has met broad political resistance. According to Le Monde, leaders across the spectrum demanded a United Nations mandate, which is unlikely due to Russia’s veto power. Macron’s team shared confidential details, including the possibility of sending up to 6,000 troops as a “reassurance” force away from the front lines. While not rejecting the idea outright, opposition parties expressed skepticism over legality, risks, and US involvement. Russia has strongly opposed the plan, warning of escalation and security threats.