KATHMANDU: Stay informed with Nepal News’ daily evening briefing, covering the most significant developments from Nepal and around the world. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we bring you a concise summary of the day’s top stories.

FIFA Lifts Funding Ban on ANFA After Four Years, Citing Transparency Reforms:
FIFA has lifted its four-year financial oversight on the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), restoring full funding access. The restriction, imposed in 2021 due to financial irregularities, was removed following a FIFA committee meeting, which acknowledged ANFA’s improved transparency and governance under President Pankaj Bikram Nembang. ANFA credited reforms and alignment with global accounting standards for the decision and highlighted recent football achievements, including progress in women’s football and historic wins by the men’s team. With funding restored, ANFA plans grassroots development, leagues, and a new stadium project, thanking Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli for his support.

PM Oli Claims 18 Economic Indicators Improved in One Year Under His Leadership:
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has claimed that 18 major economic indicators have shown positive growth within a year of his administration taking office. In a Facebook post on Saturday, Oli highlighted sectors such as construction, industry, electricity and gas, IT, healthcare, education, banking, transport, and real estate among those registering improvement. He stated that the government is committed to making further economic progress. Oli’s announcement comes a day after the Nepal Rastra Bank released the monetary policy for the fiscal year 2025/2026, aimed at stimulating investment, expanding credit, and addressing structural challenges in Nepal’s economy.

Opposition Obstructs Madhesh Provincial Assembly Over Budget Probe Committee Dispute:
The Madhesh Provincial Assembly meeting was obstructed today as opposition parties protested the formation of a probe committee to review errors in the upcoming fiscal year’s budget. CPN (Maoist Center) leader Yubaraj Bhattarai criticized the inclusion of Provincial Minister for Physical Infrastructure Saroj Kumar Yadav in the committee, defying earlier commitments by Chief Minister Satish Kumar Singh. Speaker Ram Chandra Mandal acknowledged the procedural irregularity, urging lawmakers to allow the Finance Bill’s passage and address concerns during the Appropriation Bill debate. Despite efforts to proceed, opposition members surrounded the rostrum, leading to a temporary adjournment of the session.

Madhav Kumar Nepal Pushes for Leftist Unity, Terms CIAA Case a Political Conspiracy:
CPN (Unified Socialist) Chairman Madhav Kumar Nepal has called for a unified leftist front in Nepal to address the country’s ongoing economic, political, and social challenges. Speaking at the first central committee meeting of his party’s student wing in Kathmandu, Nepal stressed that leftist unification is essential for development, good governance, employment, and public service reform. He claimed that public trust in communist forces is increasing. On a separate note, the former prime minister described the CIAA’s corruption case against him—related to a 12-year-old Cabinet decision on a Patanjali land swap—as part of a political conspiracy to defame him.

Ideology Key to Social Transformation, People’s Multiparty Democracy Vital for Global Discourse- Former President Bhandari:
Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari emphasized that ideology is the most crucial element in transforming society. Speaking at the launch of the State, Society, and Development Journal organized by the Madan Bhandari Foundation in Kathmandu, she said the journal would serve as an authoritative medium to internationalize the “Jabaj” (People’s Multiparty Democracy) philosophy. Bhandari highlighted Jabaj as a broad socio-economic doctrine that blends Marxism-Leninism with Nepal’s unique cultural and political context. She asserted that the journal would help scholars better understand and apply communist ideology in evolving times, strengthening both Nepal’s socialist path and the global communist movement through democratic and inclusive means.

Jhala Nath Khanal Says State Using Excessive Force Against Rabi Lamichhane:
Former Prime Minister Jhala Nath Khanal has criticized the state for using excessive force against Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane. Speaking to journalists after returning from an official visit to China, Khanal said that although he cannot confirm Lamichhane’s complete innocence, the state’s response appears overly harsh. “I can’t say Rabi Lamichhane hasn’t made mistakes,” he remarked, “but the state seems to be acting aggressively under various pretexts.” Lamichhane is currently in police custody following a court order in connection with an ongoing investigation into a cooperative fraud case that has drawn national attention.

Upendra Yadav Says Federalism Without Equality Undermines Democracy:
Janata Samajbadi Party Chairman Upendra Yadav has stated that without a system based on equality, Nepal’s democratic republic holds no real meaning. Speaking at a national gathering of Dalit, marginalized, Tharu, indigenous, and minority communities in Kathmandu, he criticized the federal structure for being deliberately designed to exclude underrepresented groups. Yadav argued that six of the seven provinces favor dominant populations, leaving Madhes as the only one with meaningful local representation. He stressed that structural discrimination, unequal representation, and lack of linguistic, gender, and ethnic inclusivity prevent true democracy and social justice from being realized in Nepal.

NRNA Forms Election Committees Ahead of 12th Global Convention in October:
The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), led by President Badri KC, has formed the Central Election Committee for its upcoming 12th Global Convention, scheduled for October 11–14 in Kathmandu. A meeting of the International Coordination Council (ICC) on Friday appointed advocate Dr. Rajendra Ghimire as coordinator. Other members include Chinjeevi Dhakal (UK), T.B. Karki, Pritam Shrestha, Hom Pandey, Prakash Sapkota, and Rajni Pradhan. Ram Pratap Thapa will lead the Election Monitoring Committee. Additionally, a Judicial Committee was formed with members including Bhim Udas and Bhakta Gurung. As per NRNA’s statute, these committees must be formed at least three months prior to the convention.

RPP Faces Internal Turmoil After Chair Lingden Removes Spokesperson Lawati:
Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) is facing internal conflict after Chairman Rajendra Lingden removed Sagun Sundar Lawati from the position of party spokesperson. In protest, General Secretary Dr. Dhawal Shumsher Rana convened a meeting of dissident leaders at his Tangal-based office on Saturday. According to participants, the gathering concluded that the decision violated party statutes and resolved to file a formal complaint against Lingden with the Election Commission. The meeting was attended by 10 office bearers and 50 central committee members. Lawati, calling the dismissal unfair, said the move has sparked division within the party.

NC Leader Bishwo Prakash Sharma Defends Home Minister Over Visa Scam, Calls Opposition Protest “Political Stunt”:
Nepali Congress General Secretary and lawmaker Bishwo Prakash Sharma has defended Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak amid growing pressure from opposition parties over the visit visa scandal. Speaking to RSS, Sharma argued that since no legal complaint has been filed against Lekhak in court, there is no reason for him to resign. He dismissed the opposition’s demand as political theatrics, emphasizing that the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) is already probing the matter. Sharma urged all parties to support a proper investigation and allow the legal process to take its course, rather than politicizing the issue.

Resham Chaudhary Slams Prachanda, Says Killers in Power While Innocents Labeled Murderers:
Resham Chaudhary, patron of the Nagarik Unmukti Party, has sharply criticized former Prime Minister and Maoist Centre Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda), accusing the state of protecting those who admit to killings while labeling innocent people like him as murderers. Speaking at a national gathering of Dalit, Tharu, indigenous, and minority communities in Kathmandu, Chaudhary said he wasn’t even present during the 2015 Tikapur incident but continues to be vilified. In contrast, he pointed out, individuals who have publicly admitted to violence remain in power. “Justice is dead in Nepal,” he declared, questioning what kind of rebellion people are expected to wage.

Flood at Nepal-China Border Sweeps Away Imported EVs, Damages Customs Yard:
A massive flood in the Lhende River at Nepal’s Rasuwa district on July 8 swept away several vehicles, including newly imported electric vehicles (EVs), parked at the Timure customs yard awaiting clearance. Many vehicles were submerged in mud and debris, with at least eight missing EVs recovered so far, according to rescue teams. The NADA Automobiles Association of Nepal raised serious concerns, calling it a significant blow to Nepal’s automobile import system and the EV supply chain from China. The incident highlights vulnerabilities in infrastructure and storage practices at border customs facilities amid increasing climate-related disasters.

Hemophilia Patients in Tulsipur Demand Local Access to Lifesaving Factor Injections:
Hemophilia patients in Tulsipur, Dang, are urging authorities to ensure the local availability of Factor injections—critical for preventing life-threatening bleeding. Patients like Ram Bahadur Dahit and Sher Bahadur Chaudhary, who suffer from this rare genetic disorder, must travel weekly to Butwal or Kathmandu for treatment due to the unavailability of medicine in Tulsipur. Though the Lumbini Province government supplies the medicine free of cost and the local government provides Rs 15,000 annually for travel, patients say the system is unreliable. Health officials and advocates stress the urgent need for a decentralized, dependable supply chain to protect lives.

Bhaktapur Declared Fully Immunized District, Sets National Benchmark in Child Health:
Bhaktapur has officially been declared a fully immunized district, joining a select group of regions in Nepal to achieve complete vaccination coverage. The announcement was made in Suryabinayak by Bagmati Province Health Minister Kiran Thapa, who also unveiled new health initiatives, including door-to-door screenings for non-communicable diseases and telemedicine hubs at Bhaktapur and Hetuada Hospitals. Officials praised the role of local health workers and community volunteers in reaching every child. The immunization campaign has helped reduce child mortality by up to 80%. Authorities vowed to sustain full coverage and further strengthen healthcare infrastructure and services in the district.

Wilson Bikram Rai to Make Directorial Debut with Social Drama Maijharo:
Popular comedian and actor Wilson Bikram Rai, known as ‘Takme Budha,’ is set to make his directorial debut with the film Maijharo. On Monday, he announced the project by signing actor Dhiraj Magar in the lead role. Written by Rai himself, the film will feature music by Anmol Gurung and Torempa Hang Rai, with cinematography by Saurabh Lama. Filming is scheduled to begin in the first week of Shrawan (mid-July) in the scenic regions of Ilam and Panchthar. According to Rai, Maijharo will depict the social realities, culture, and lifestyle of eastern Nepal’s hill communities. The full cast will be revealed soon.

DPM Prakash Man Singh Urges Youth to Reject Pessimism, Recognize Nepal’s Progress:
Deputy Prime Minister and Urban Development Minister Prakash Man Singh has dismissed claims that Nepal has made no progress, calling such narratives misleading. Speaking at a felicitation event for SEE graduates in Nagarjun Municipality-2, Kathmandu, Singh urged students to engage in critical thinking and not be swayed by negativity. He highlighted advancements in education, contrasting current opportunities with the limited options of the past. Emphasizing youth responsibility in nation-building, Singh encouraged students to pursue higher education in Nepal, citing improved academic standards. He acknowledged challenges but insisted that meaningful progress has been made and must be recognized.

Director Rupesh Tamang Announces New Action-Suspense Film Ekka Teen for 2026 Release:
Rupesh Tamang, director of last year’s film Daanvi, has announced his new movie titled Ekka Teen. The theme poster, created using artificial intelligence, was released on Friday, showing two men and one woman with a large explosion and a helicopter in the background. Written by Suman Gazmer, the film is set for release in 2026 under the Juna Films banner. Actress Pooja Sharma has been confirmed as the lead, having signed on two months ago. Tamang promises a strong mix of action, suspense, and an improved storyline, with filming slated to begin after Tihar. Pre-production is currently underway.

Youngest Director Saugat Bisht Completes Filming of Short Movie Bhuwa:
Saugat Bisht, recognized as the world’s youngest film director in the Guinness Book of World Records, has completed shooting his new short film Bhuwa. Produced by Samjhana Pokharel and presented by Dance Fever, the film stars Gajit Bisht, Rajan Shrestha, Shalini Bhattarai, and Ashri KC. Bhuwa explores themes of child psychology, family emotions, and social awareness. Written by Sangam Bisht, with cinematography by Navaraj Upreti and editing by Pravin Bhatt, the film features music composed by Rajendra Bajgain and lyrics by Chandramani Bhattarai. The production team expresses confidence in Saugat’s continued creative excellence through this project.

New Film Bakas Directed by Naveen Pant to Explore Nepali Migrant Workers’ Struggles:
Director Naveen Pant has announced his new film Bakas, with a theme poster released on Guru Purnima. The movie’s shooting will begin after Tihar, aiming for release next year. The poster shows a man looking toward a village, standing beside a coffin, with a plane flying overhead—symbolizing the harsh reality faced by Nepali migrant workers who return home in coffins. Produced under the P.K. Entertainment banner, the film’s story is written by Pant himself. Filming will take place in Nepal and abroad, featuring songs by Shankar Adhikari (Ghayal) and Narayan Basnet. Script finalization and casting are underway.

Singer Ashok Darji’s Biographical Film Man Binako Dhan Set to Release on Kartik 21:
The film Man Binako Dhan, starring singer Ashok Darji in the lead role, is scheduled for release on Kartik 21 after an agreement between the producer Bishnumaya Mainali and distributors. Directed by musician Tank Budhathoki, the film features a star-studded cast including Saroj Khanal, Santosh Pant, and others. The screenplay and dialogue are by Shivam Adhikari, with music composed by Tank Budhathoki. The movie is produced under Tank Budhathoki Production, and tells Ashok Darji’s life story. Ashok’s hit song Man Binako Dhan — which changed his life — is also featured, having garnered nearly 30 million views on YouTube.

Nepalgunj Night Run Joins International Marathon Association, Elevating Global Status:
Nepalgunj’s unique 10-kilometer night race, the ‘Nepalgunj Night Run,’ has officially joined the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), marking its entry onto the global running stage. Held annually on Constitution Day night, the event began last year and, along with the Nepalgunj Marathon, makes Nepalgunj the first Nepali city to host two AIMS-certified races. The marathon route is considered the easiest in Nepal and will now feature on AIMS’ global calendar, boosting the city’s international profile and attracting foreign runners. Other races under Nepalgunj Marathon, like the Kathmandu 25K Heritage Run, are also on track for AIMS recognition.

Pakistan ‘A’ Squad Announced for Top End T20 Series in Australia Featuring Nepal:
Pakistan Cricket Board has announced a 15-member Pakistan ‘A’ team, led by Mohammad Irfan Khan, to participate in the upcoming Top End T20 series in Darwin, Australia, from August 14 to 24. The series features nine teams, including Nepal, Pakistan ‘A’, Bangladesh ‘A’, and the Chicago Kingsmen from the US Minor League. Nepal will play six group matches against teams like Northern Territory Strike, Bangladesh ‘A’, Melbourne Stars Academy, and Pakistan ‘A’, with their match against Pakistan ‘A’ scheduled for August 22. The tournament concludes with semifinals and a final on August 24. Pakistan ‘A’ aims to improve after last edition’s semifinal loss.

Tip Top Help Nepal Sports Club Sent Off for Kaba Men’s Club Championship in Maldives:
Tip Top Help Nepal Sports Club has been officially sent off to represent Nepal at the Kaba Men’s Club Championship in the Maldives, scheduled from July 16 to 22. The club qualified by winning the men’s title in the 9th PM Cup NV League and is participating for the second consecutive time. Competing against clubs from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and two teams from the Maldives, Help Nepal aims to win the title this year, improving from last year’s runner-up finish. The team includes three foreign players but faces limited joint training before the competition. The championship also serves as a qualifier for the 2026 Asian Club Championship.

Preliminary Report Reveals Sudden Fuel Cutoff Caused Air India Flight AI 171 Crash:
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has identified a sudden and unexplained fuel cutoff to both engines as the cause of the Air India flight AI 171 crash on June 12. The incident occurred just three seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad. The fuel supply interruption led to the failure of both engines, resulting in the crash. The AAIB’s preliminary report highlights this critical failure but has yet to determine the exact reason behind the fuel cutoff. Further investigation is ongoing to uncover more details.

Trump Sees Zelensky as Main Obstacle to Ukraine Peace Despite Criticism of Putin, Reports Say:
US President Donald Trump continues to view Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky as the chief barrier to resolving the Ukraine conflict, despite recently criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to the Financial Times. Trump expressed frustration with Putin’s insincerity but suggested Moscow wants to end the fighting, while Zelensky causes problems. Sources close to Washington’s defense talks indicate little shift toward a pro-Kyiv stance in the White House. The report echoes earlier claims that Trump favors Putin as the main negotiating partner and harbors “special animosity” toward Zelensky. Kremlin responded calmly, reaffirming its commitment to diplomatic dialogue.

Trump Announces 30% Tariffs on European Products Starting August 1:
US President Donald Trump announced plans to impose a 30% tariff on European products beginning August 1, according to a letter he posted on Truth Social addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Trump warned the tariff rate could increase further if the European Union retaliates, calling the 30% rate “far less than what is needed to eliminate the Trade Deficit disparity.” The announcement signals escalating trade tensions between the US and the EU. Journalists are actively covering the story and will provide updates as more details emerge.