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.

President Paudel: Law Must Provide Hope for the Innocent and Fear for the Guilty

On the occasion of Law Day 2026 (today), President Ram Chandra Paudel emphasized that the law should serve as a shield for the innocent and a deterrent for the guilty. Speaking at an event in Kathmandu, he stressed that any deviation from established legal systems and traditions could cause human society to live in fear. The president highlighted that the Constitution of Nepal guarantees a system committed to democratic values, including civil liberties, human rights, and an independent judiciary. He expressed hope that this day would inspire a modern legal system utilizing technology to ensure swift justice and strengthen public faith in the judiciary. The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, Acting Chief Justice Sapna Pradhan Malla, Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal, and National Assembly Chairperson Narayan Dahal.

PM Balen Shah Launches Digital Portal for Citizen Suggestions on Budget

The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers has launched a “Suggestion Collection Portal” to ensure direct citizen participation in formulating the upcoming fiscal year’s policies, programs, and budget. According to Deepa Dahal, Press and Research Expert to Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen), the portal aims to move policy-making beyond administrative circles by incorporating the feelings and expertise of the general public. The digital platform includes a “Suggestion Track” feature, allowing contributors to monitor the status of their input and the government’s subsequent actions. Citizens can access the portal via the official ministry website to send their views directly to the Prime Minister’s Secretariat ahead of the policy announcement scheduled for this Monday.

Supreme Court Rejects Petitions Against Chief Justice Recommendation

The Supreme Court has refused to register three writ petitions challenging the Constitutional Council’s recommendation of Supreme Court Justice Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma for appointment as chief justice. The petitions argued the recommendation was unconstitutional because it relied on ordinance-based provisions and bypassed seniority norms. Petitioners warned the move could weaken judicial independence and increase executive influence over the judiciary. The court also declined requests for interim orders seeking to halt Sharma’s recommendation amid growing political and legal controversy surrounding the appointment process.

Acting Chief Justice Warns Against Political Pressure on Judiciary

Acting Chief Justice Sapna Pradhan Malla has warned that the judiciary cannot function under fear, intimidation, or political pressure, saying even a government with a two-thirds majority should not expect courts to operate under threats or impeachment pressure. Speaking at a Law Day program, Malla defended judicial independence amid controversy over the recommendation of fourth-ranked Justice Manoj Kumar Sharma as the next chief justice. She said manipulating constitutional procedures for political interests weakens constitutional morality and urged legal professionals, civil society, and the media to protect the judiciary’s independence.

Nepal Reaffirms Commitment to Safe Migration at United Nations Forum

The country has reaffirmed its commitment to safe, orderly, and regular migration at the Second International Migration Review Forum of the United Nations. Addressing the general debate, Nepal’s Permanent Representative Lok Bahadur Thapa highlighted the contribution of nearly four million Nepali migrant workers to both destination countries and Nepal’s economy through remittances, skills, and knowledge transfer. He also outlined reforms in ethical recruitment, gender-responsive migration policies, anti-trafficking measures, social protection, and digital recruitment services, while calling for stronger international cooperation to tackle irregular migration, exploitation, and trafficking.

Govt. Launches ‘Price Transparency Week’ Against Market Fraud

The government is launching a nationwide “Price Transparency Week” campaign to curb market irregularities, artificial price hikes, and consumer fraud. Led jointly by the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, the campaign will require businesses to publicly display price lists while strengthening market inspections across federal, provincial, and local levels. Authorities said the initiative aims to improve accountability, reduce consumer exploitation, and ensure swift action against traders violating market regulations amid growing complaints over inconsistent pricing practices.

Government to Launch ‘National Sanitation Week’ Starting Monday

The government will observe “National Sanitation Week” from Monday, May 11, to May 15, across all federal, provincial, and local-level offices. According to Subarna Bajracharya of the PM’s Office, the “Sanitation Week Management Guideline 2026” has been issued to standardize cleanliness in public institutions and educational facilities. The campaign will officially kick off at Bir Hospital at 8:30 AM on Monday. Offices will be evaluated on specific indicators, including the state of toilets, canteens, waste management, and service-user feedback.

RSP MP Ashika Tamang Facing Clarification Over Social Media Comments

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) is preparing to seek a formal explanation from its lawmaker Ashika Tamang following her critical social media posts regarding the party’s internal training programs. Tamang, elected from Dhading-2, questioned why a two-day leadership training program for MPs was held at the Staff College in Jawalakhel instead of using existing halls within Singha Durbar. She argued that holding events in external venues contradicts the party’s stance against unnecessary spending. An RSP leader confirmed that her comments, which compared the new party’s behavior to older traditional parties, have prompted the request for clarification.

Shram Sanskriti Party Protest Against Government Demolition Drive

The Bagmati Province committee of the Shram Sanskriti Party staged a protest at Maitighar in Kathmandu on Saturday, accusing the state of intensifying suppression against landless squatters, landless settlers, and unmanaged residents. Held under the slogan “This country belongs to the poor as well,” the demonstration drew party workers, squatters, and human rights activists demanding an immediate end to forced evictions and bulldozer operations in informal settlements without rehabilitation measures. Protesters argued that housing is a fundamental right and warned that displacing vulnerable communities without alternatives leaves citizens homeless and deprived of basic necessities. Demonstrators carried placards and banners reading “Let the poor live” and “Stop the displacement of landless settlers” during the protest.

Nepali Congress Launches Nationwide Election Review From Dhangadhi

Dhangadhi became the starting point of the Nepali Congress’s nationwide election review and training program on Friday. The two-day event is being attended by party president Gagan Kumar Thapa, Vice President Bishwa Prakash Sharma, office bearers, lawmakers, defeated candidates, provincial assembly members, and local representatives. Party leaders said the program will assess past electoral performance while shaping the party’s future political strategy and organizational direction ahead of upcoming elections.

PM’s Advisor and Saudi Ambassador Bid Farewell to ‘Hajj Pilgrims’

Asim Shah, political advisor to Prime Minister Balen Shah, and Fahad Mohammed Azmi Minikir, the Saudi Arabian ambassador to Nepal, bid farewell to a group of Nepali Muslim pilgrims departing for the holy city of Mecca. During the event, both officials expressed confidence that the pilgrimage would further strengthen religious and cultural ties between Nepal and Saudi Arabia. They emphasized that Hajj is a symbol of spiritual unity and urged relevant agencies to ensure the pilgrims’ safety, smooth management, and necessary cooperation throughout their journey.

Durga Prasai Accuses PM Balen of Destroying Citizen’s Dreams

Durga Prasai, coordinator of the Nation, Nationality, Religion, Culture, and Citizen Protection Mega-Campaign, has accused Prime Minister Balen Shah of destroying not only the homes of citizens but also their dreams. Prasai claimed that voters who supported the RSP at the urging of relatives abroad are now regretting their decision, as their parents in Nepal now find themselves without homes due to demolition drives. He further alleged that the current government was formed at the behest of the United States and criticized the executive for interfering with the judiciary by recommending the fourth-ranked judge for the position of chief justice.

Nepal Embassy Urges Nepalis in Cambodia to Quit Illegal Activities

The Nepali Embassy in Bangkok has urged Nepali nationals staying illegally in Cambodia, including those involved in online scams and other unlawful activities, to immediately stop such acts and return home. The embassy said only 221 Nepalis have registered through its online information system so far and appealed for wider participation to help coordinate support with Cambodian authorities. It also encouraged trafficking victims or those deceived by false job offers to file complaints with Nepal Police’s Anti-Human Trafficking Bureau.

Russian Embassy Marks 81st Victory Day Anniversary in Kathmandu

Kathmandu hosted an exhibition and cultural program marking the 81st anniversary of Victory Day commemorating the Soviet Union’s role in World War II. Russian Ambassador Aleksei Surovtsev highlighted the historic significance of the victory and urged younger generations to preserve historical truth. The event featured speeches, a joint Russian-Nepali concert, and the first public performance by a Russian-Nepali chorus. The ambassador also announced that a Russian expedition team had celebrated Victory Day atop Mount Everest, carrying commemorative banners marking 70 years of Nepal-Russia diplomatic relations.

Pokhara Tourism Council Demands Undergrounding of Telecommunication Wires

The Pokhara Tourism Council (PTC), led by President Taranath Pahari, has submitted a memorandum to Nepal Telecom demanding the immediate management of unsightly overhead wires in key tourist areas like Lakeside, Damside, and Begnas Lake. The Council highlighted that tangles of wires, which some tourists have labeled “Black Trees,” obstruct views and hinder photography. While electricity wires are currently being undergrounded, the PTC expressed concern over the slow pace of telecom’s involvement and the safety hazards posed by poorly filled trenches during the rainy season. Additionally, General Secretary Jiban Raj Sapkota requested free internet at the tourist bus park to support Pokhara’s transition into a “Smart Tourism City.”

Schools in Apihimal to Close for 15 Days for Yarsagumba Collection

Community schools in Apihimal Rural Municipality, Darchula, will close for 15 days starting Sunday (tomorrow), as the Yarsagumba harvesting season begins. Education Officer Madan Raj Joshi stated that all 22 schools, serving approximately 1,100 students, are being closed in coordination with winter leave schedules because teachers, parents, and students all head to the highlands for collection. Local resident Soban Lothyal noted that many houses are now locked as families seek the significant income provided by the fungus. Schools are expected to resume operations on May 24.

Himalayan Sports Secures 2026 World Cup Broadcasting Rights for Nepal

Himalayan Sports officially announced on Friday that it will be the exclusive broadcaster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Nepal, securing the rights for around USD 1.7 million. While the broadcast is confirmed for Nepal, major markets like India and China, home to a third of the world’s population, have yet to finalize agreements with FIFA. FIFA has reportedly lowered its asking price for China from USD 300 million to between USD 120 and USD 150 million as negotiations continue. The tournament, featuring 48 teams, is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19, this year, across North America.

Iran Confirms 2026 World Cup Participation Amid Security Conditions

The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) announced on Saturday that its men’s national team will participate in the 2026 World Cup, provided the host nations address specific concerns. Federation President Mehdi Taj outlined ten conditions, including guaranteed visas for all staff and players, particularly those like Mehdi Taremi and Ehsan Hajsafi who served in the IRGC, as well as high security at airports, hotels, and stadiums. This follows tension after Canada denied Taj entry to a FIFA congress. FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that Iran’s matches will proceed as scheduled in the United States, where they are slated to face New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in Group G.

Putin Defends Ukraine War in Victory Day Speech

Russian President Vladimir Putin used Moscow’s Victory Day celebrations to defend the war in Ukraine, calling it a “just” fight against what he described as an aggressive NATO-backed force. Speaking at Red Square during Russia’s annual commemoration of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany, Putin praised Russian troops fighting in Ukraine and linked their mission to the sacrifices of World War Two soldiers. This year’s parade was scaled down, with no tanks or ballistic missiles displayed for the first time in years. Russian officials said military equipment was needed on the battlefield instead. The ceremony took place amid a temporary three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, although both sides later accused each other of violations.

Gaza-Bound Activists to be Deported After Israeli Detention

KATHMANDU: Two activists detained by Israeli forces after attempting to sail aid to Gaza are expected to be deported in the coming days following their release from security detention, lawyers said Saturday. Saif Abu Keshek and Thiago Avila were arrested on April 29 after Israeli forces intercepted a Gaza-bound flotilla launched from Spain. Israel accused the pair of links to illegal activity and a terrorist organization, allegations both denied. Spain and Brazil called the detention unlawful, while rights group Adalah said the activists would remain in immigration custody until deportation. The flotilla was part of an effort to challenge Israel’s blockade on Gaza amid the ongoing war triggered by Hamas’ October 2023 attack.

Iran Accuses US of ‘Military Adventure’ Amid Hormuz Tensions

Abbas Araghchi accused the United States of pursuing a “reckless military adventure” despite diplomatic efforts, as tensions escalated in the Strait of Hormuz. The remarks came after the US and Iran traded accusations over attacks involving drones, missiles, and naval vessels near the strategic waterway, through which roughly 20 percent of global oil and gas shipments pass. US forces said they blocked Iranian-linked tankers attempting to enter ports under an American naval blockade, while Iran claimed US strikes targeted vessels and coastal areas, injuring sailors. Despite the clashes, Donald Trump said a fragile ceasefire remained intact as negotiations continued.

Indonesian Rescuers Locate Missing Singaporean Hikers Near Volcano Crater

Indonesian rescue teams on Saturday located two missing Singaporean hikers near the crater rim of Mount Dukono after the volcano erupted on Halmahera island, authorities said. Officials said drone surveillance identified the hikers about 20 to 30 meters from the crater edge, though it remains unclear whether they are alive. The body of an Indonesian woman who was also missing has been recovered. The volcano in North Maluku province erupted Friday, sending ash up to 10 kilometers into the sky and forcing rescue operations under dangerous conditions. Authorities earlier evacuated 17 hikers, while police launched an investigation into a tour company accused of taking tourists into a restricted zone despite a climbing ban imposed due to volcanic activity.