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.

Balen-Rabi-Baburam Meet Sparks Speculation on Upcoming Election Strategies

Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah held strategic talks with Rastriya Swatantra Party Chairman Rabi Lamichhane at the residence of his chief advisor, Kumar Ben, in Lalitpur’s Kupandol. The meeting lasted about two and a half hours and was attended by Gen Z leaders, former MP Amaresh Kumar Singh, and artists. Lamichhane described the talks as “good” but declined to provide details. On the same day, Mayor Shah also met former Prime Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, joined by his daughter Manushi Yami, at Kumar Ben’s residence to discuss alternative political alliances, contemporary issues, and upcoming elections. The series of discussions highlights Shah’s growing political engagement and efforts to consolidate alternative forces ahead of the next elections. The dialogue is seen as significant amid increasing political activity by Mayor Shah, who recently met leaders including former Minister Kulman Ghising and ex-MP Sunil Sharma.

Election Commission Issues Code of Conduct 2025

The Election Commission issued the draft Election Code of Conduct, 2025, for public suggestion on Thursday. The draft is aimed at the upcoming House of Representatives elections scheduled for March 5, 2026. Exercising powers under Section 22 of the Election Commission Act, 2017, the commission seeks to ensure transparency, fairness, and a fear-free environment. The code consists of 10 chapters and 5 schedules, replacing the older version. Key provisions include publishing the names of violators, using information technology for monitoring, and a mandatory requirement for political parties to publicize their election manifestos before the polls.

Koshi Province Cricket Captain Meenash Thapa Killed in Crash

Koshi Province cricket team captain Meenash Thapa, 27, died in a motorcycle accident in Biratnagar on Wednesday night. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Kopila Chudal, the accident occurred on the Airport Line in Ward 4 as Thapa lost control of his motorcycle while riding toward Ganesh Chowk. He was rushed to Koshi Hospital with critical injuries but was declared dead by doctors at 12:30 am. The District Police Office, Morang, confirmed that further investigations into the incident are ongoing. Thapa’s sudden passing has left the local sports community in shock as police examine the crash site.

Police Arrest 71 Middlemen for Harassing Passengers at Gongabu Bus Park

Police arrested 71 middlemen for causing unnecessary trouble to passengers in the Gongabu New Bus Park area of Kathmandu. According to the Kathmandu Valley Police Office, Ranipokhari, these arrests were made during a joint operation conducted since December 10. The operation targeted individuals who harass travelers by forcibly pulling bags or misleading them regarding bus tickets and destinations. The authorities confirmed that legal action has been initiated against all 71 suspects. This crackdown aims to ensure the safety and convenience of commuters using public transport hubs within the valley. Police have vowed to continue surveillance to eliminate such disturbances.

Supreme Court Allows 60 Lawmakers to Join Parliament Restoration Case

The Constitutional bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Prakashman Singh Raut, permitted 60 former lawmakers to participate in the House of Representatives restoration case. The group includes 57 members from the Nepali Congress. This follows an earlier petition filed on December 9 by Shyam Ghimire and others. Meanwhile, the Election Commission appointed election officers for all seven provinces starting December 30 for the National Assembly elections scheduled for January 25, 2026. Bhishma Raj Prasai, Subhash Babu Puri, Gita Shrestha, and Himlal Belbase are among those appointed. Nominations will be registered in the coming week.

Authorities Rescue 4 Pythons in Nawalparasi

Armed Police Force personnel rescued four giant pythons from the Basahiya village area in Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta Paschim) on Wednesday. The snakes were discovered near the Baidauli bridge, causing panic among local residents. A police team from the Basahiya Police Post safely captured the pythons without causing injury to the animals or the public. The pythons were subsequently relocated and released into a safe river area far from human settlements. Authorities have urged citizens not to harm or provoke wild animals found in residential areas and to immediately contact the nearest police station or forest office for professional assistance during such encounters.

Health Ministry Warns Ambulance Drivers Against Commission-Based Diversions

The Ministry of Health and Population issued a warning regarding illegal ambulance operations. Public Health Administrator Bandana Bhatta stated that drivers taking patients to expensive private hospitals for financial gain, rather than following dispatch center instructions, will face legal action. Under the Ambulance Service Directive, 2025, all services must operate through designated dispatch centers. The ministry received complaints that some drivers ignore patient wishes or emergency protocols to secure commissions. Authorities emphasized that exploiting vulnerable patients for profit is reprehensible and urged drivers to prioritize medical necessity over personal financial incentives. Legal action will be taken against those violating the 2025 directive.

Saptari Hosts Community Response Training for Disaster Risk Reduction

A five-day Community Response Team training commenced in Rajbiraj, Saptari, targeting disaster risk reduction. Organized by Aasaman Nepal with technical support from the Nepal Red Cross Society, the program involves 24 locals from Tilathi Koiladi Rural Municipality Wards 3, 5, 6, and 8. Participants receive practical training in fire control, water-based rescues, first aid, and emergency communication. Information Officer Aman Sharan noted the goal is to create a self-reliant workforce. The training, ending this coming Sunday, aims to strengthen local safety systems. Course manager Rimu Chaudhary emphasized developing essential skills for community-based disaster management.

Free Eye Camp Restores Sight for 120 Senior Citizens in Sindhupalchok

A four-day surgical camp in Sindhupalchok provided successful cataract surgeries for 120 elderly residents. Organized by the Sunkoshi Indrawati Society, the event was held at the Bahrabise Primary Health Center with technical aid from the BP Koirala Lions Centre. Specialist Dr. Pratap Karki and a team of 15 screened 500 patients. Patients like 70-year-old Yogmaya Poudyal and 78-year-old Karma Tamang regained their sight. The camp, running from last Sunday to Wednesday, targeted disadvantaged groups lacking access to medical facilities in rural mountainous regions. Bhupendra Thapa noted that awareness and access gaps often prevent such life-changing treatments.

Over 825 KG of Marijuana Seized in Saptari Raid

Police in Saptari seized approximately 825 kilograms of marijuana from Chhinnamasta Rural Municipality–4 on Wednesday. One individual was arrested during the operation conducted by the District Police Office. The contraband was discovered hidden in a local residence following a tip-off. This seizure is part of an ongoing crackdown on drug trafficking in the border regions. In a separate incident, the Central Investigation Bureau arrested three escaped prisoners in Kathmandu who were serving 13-year sentences for a 2017 rape case. Authorities have intensified security and surveillance in the Terai districts to curb the cross-border smuggling of illegal substances and track fugitive criminals.

3 Foreign Nationals Arrested in Kathmandu with 4.3 KG Cocaine

The Narcotics Control Bureau arrested three foreign nationals in Kathmandu with 4.3 kilograms of illegal cocaine. Rusanee Kama, a 40-year-old from Thailand, was caught with 550 grams, while Indian citizens Xavier Mathew Thaliachery, 55, and Mursalen Hussain, 21, possessed 3.75 kilograms. The drugs were smuggled from Laos via Thailand and Singapore. Deputy Superintendent of Police Jiban Niraula stated the suspects operated a drug ring within Nepal. Authorities recovered the cocaine hidden in 12 plastic capsules and suitcases. The Kathmandu District Court has extended their remand for investigation under the Narcotics Control Act.

NRB Grants First Legal Approval for IT Sector Overseas Expansion

Nepal Rastra Bank has granted legal permission for a Nepali IT company to open an overseas branch and transfer equity for the first time. iDream Technologies received approval to establish iDream LLC in the United States. The central bank sanctioned the transfer of funds in dollars as equity to a US bank account. This milestone is expected to facilitate Nepali IT firms in actively targeting foreign currency earnings. Authorities believe this move will encourage more local tech companies to expand their global footprint, enhancing Nepal’s presence in the international digital services market and boosting service exports.

South Korea Cuts EPS E-9 Visa Quota to 80,000 for 2026

The South Korean government reduced the EPS E-9 visa quota for non-professional workers to 80,000 for 2026, a 38.46 percent drop from 2025’s 130,000 slots. This decision by the Foreign Workforce Policy Committee affects 17 countries, including Nepal. The Ministry of Employment and Labor cited a slowing economy and a surplus of workers as reasons for the cut. While the E-9 quota decreased, the E-8 seasonal worker quota was raised to 109,000. Korea plans to move toward an integrated visa system to address labor shortages in specific industries and rural manufacturing sectors more effectively in the future.

Janakpurdham Forms Committee to Manage Over 10,000 E-Rickshaws

A five-member study committee has been formed to resolve registration and management issues for e-rickshaws in Janakpurdham. Chaired by Dhananjaya Kumar Singh, head of the Dhanusha Transport Office, the committee must submit a report within 15 days. The decision was made on Wednesday during a meeting led by Chief District Officer Prem Prasad Luitel and Mayor Manoj Kumar Shah. With over 10,000 e-rickshaws currently operating, the committee will study management models in Hetauda, Biratnagar, and Birgunj to address traffic congestion and route permits. The team includes representatives from the municipality, traffic police, and labor unions.

Tribhuvan University Concludes 51st Convocation

Tribhuvan University, the country’s oldest university, held its 51st Convocation Day today. For the first time in its history, the university secured the presence of Nobel laureate Prof. Kajita Takaaki as the chief guest, according to Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Deepak Aryal. Kajita, a distinguished professor from Japan, received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2015. Vice Chancellor Aryal said all preparations had been completed smoothly for the ceremony. A total of 16,380 graduates were conferred degrees during the convocation, attended by around 41,000 people, including students and their families. At least 89,191 students completed bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs this year, while faculty toppers received medals at the ceremony.

Lumbini Homestay Operators Begin 5-Day Hospitality Training

Dordi Rural Municipality in Lamjung started a five-day homestay management and traditional cooking training on Wednesday. Organized for 30 operators from seven villages, including Sallabot and Tajje, the program aims to boost self-employment. Chairman Yuvaraj Adhikari emphasized the “One Ward, One Night, One Meal” initiative to support the local economy. Trainers Chudamani Paudel and Mohan Gajurel are providing skills in guest welcoming and culinary arts. Running until this coming Sunday, the training helps residents earn income locally. Employment Coordinator Dharmaraj Gurung noted that the municipality continues to support registered homestays to encourage citizens to remain in their villages.

Film ‘Muglan’ Releases on Christmas Day Starring Prabhat Pal

The movie Muglan, starring Prabhat Pal and Smarika Dhakal, was released on Thursday to coincide with Christmas Day. Written and directed by Ashish Dhakal, the film presents a poignant story of youth leaving their motherland for foreign employment and a brighter future. The cast includes Shree Shivanshi, Dinesh DC, Moti Subedi, Ramchandra Adhikari, Raju Raj Soni, Rashmi Bhat, Jiwan Gautam, and Sabin Bastola. Produced by Goman Singh and co-produced by Rita Chaudhary, the movie highlights the emotional challenges of migration while seeking better opportunities abroad.

Nepal Makes Historic International Debut in Ice Skating

Nepal is set to compete in an international-level ice skating competition for the first time in history. Six athletes, including 2 women and 4 men, will represent the country at the Short Track Speed Ice Skating Competition in Dehradun, India, from December 27 to 29. The event is organized by the Ice Skating Federation of India in collaboration with the Asian Skating Union and the International Skating Union. Ramesh Moktan, Arun Khatwe, Pari Guragain, Alka Ghimire, Xavier Jung Thapa, and Sayan Aryal comprise the team. Nepal Olympic Committee President Jeevan Ram Shrestha described the milestone as a landmark for winter sports development.

National Sports Council Endorses Guidelines and 2026 Asian Games Entry

The 124th board meeting of the National Sports Council, chaired by Minister Bablu Gupta, passed the National Games Operation Guideline 2024 with its third amendment. The board confirmed Nepal’s participation in the 20th Asian Games in Japan in 2026. Decisions were made to establish the Gen Z Martyrs’ Memorial Park and rename an auditorium in Satdobato as the Gen Z Memorial Auditorium. Minister Gupta noted that prize money for the Kho-Kho World Cup runners-up is awaiting approval from the Ministry of Finance. Preparation for the 10th National Games and 1st Para National Games also received formal endorsement.

Tarique Rahman Returns to Bangladesh After 17 Years in Exile

Bangladesh Nationalist Party Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman returned to Dhaka from the United Kingdom on Thursday, ending nearly 17 years in exile. Arriving ahead of the February 12 general elections, Rahman was welcomed by hundreds of thousands of supporters. Upon landing at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, the 60-year-old leader symbolically touched the soil before heading to see his ailing mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. His return follows the acquittal of various charges by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. Rahman pledged to build an inclusive nation, urging peace and cooperation among all faiths to restore political and economic stability.

China Urges Lawful and Balanced Solution in TikTok US Handover

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated on Thursday that any solution regarding TikTok’s US operations must comply with Chinese laws and balance all parties’ interests. This follows ByteDance signing binding agreements to transfer control of its US app to a group of investors, including Oracle, to avoid a potential ban. Spokesperson He Yongqian emphasized that the United States should provide a fair and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese enterprises. While the deal aims to resolve years of uncertainty over data protection and algorithm security, Beijing maintains that the underlying technology remains subject to domestic regulations, urging both sides to fulfill previous framework commitments.

White House Orders Two-Month Military Quarantine of Venezuelan Oil

The White House has directed US military forces to prioritize a “quarantine” of Venezuelan oil for the next 2 months to maximize economic pressure. A US official confirmed on Wednesday that the strategy aims to force concessions from President Nicolas Maduro by targeting the nation’s primary revenue source. The US Coast Guard has already intercepted 2 tankers, with a 3rd seizure currently in progress. While over 15,000 troops and an aircraft carrier are deployed in the Caribbean, the administration is currently prioritizing sanctions enforcement over direct ground strikes. United Nations experts have condemned the blockade, labeling the use of force as illegal armed aggression.

Nigeria Mosque Suicide Bombing Leaves Five Dead and 35 Injured

A suspected suicide bomber detonated an explosive inside the Al-Adum mosque in Maiduguri, Nigeria, during evening prayers on Wednesday. The blast killed at least 5 worshippers and left 35 others injured. While no group has claimed responsibility, the region has faced a 15-year campaign by Boko Haram and its ISWAP faction. Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the act as barbaric and urged increased vigilance during the festive season. Victims were rushed to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and the State Specialist Hospital for treatment. Police bomb disposal teams confirmed finding fragments of a suicide vest at the cordoned-off scene.