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.

Minor Earthquake Tremor Felt in Kathmandu Valley

A minor earthquake with a magnitude of 2.9 was felt in Kathmandu on Wednesday evening at 7:24 PM. According to the National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Center, the epicenter of the tremor was located in the Matatirth area of the capital.

House Adjourned After Hours-Long Deadlock Over PM’s Absence

The House of Representatives was adjourned on Wednesday (May 13) after repeated obstruction by the main opposition party, the Nepali Congress, over demands that Prime Minister Balendra Shah personally appear in Parliament during discussions on the government’s policies and programs for fiscal year 2026/27. The meeting was first suspended for 15 minutes, but proceedings failed to resume even after more than one hour. A second 15-minute suspension was later announced, yet the House again remained stalled for nearly another hour before Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal adjourned the session amid continued protests. The deadlock began after the Speaker informed lawmakers that Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle would present the government’s policies and programs on behalf of the Prime Minister.

National Assembly Begins Debate on FY 2026/27 Policies and Programs

The National Assembly of Nepal on Wednesday began discussions on the government’s policies and programs for fiscal year 2026/27, with lawmakers holding a party-wise debate in the upper house. Chairperson Narayan Prasad Dahal informed the House that a total of eight amendment proposals, including a joint proposal backed by 19 members, had been registered on the policy document. Earlier in the session, Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle, representing Prime Minister Balendra Shah, had tabled a proposal to initiate deliberations on the policies and programs for 2026/27, as outlined in the President’s address to the joint sitting of Parliament on Monday (May 11). The debate formally began in the upper house, with parties presenting their positions on the policy framework for the coming fiscal year.

Cabinet Cuts Federal Ministries from 22 to 18 Under Reform Plan

The federal government has reduced the number of ministries from 22 to 18, including the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, after approving the Government of Nepal Work Division Rules 2026 under its governance reform and expenditure reduction plan. The restructuring will merge or abolish the ministries of Youth and Sports, Water Supply and Sanitation, Urban Development, and Federal Affairs and General Administration. The sports sector will be integrated with education, while women, children, senior citizens, youth, health, and social security sectors will be combined under a proposed social development ministry. Water Supply and Urban Development will be merged into Physical Infrastructure, while the transport sector is expected to move under the Labor Ministry. The reform follows recommendations by a task force led by Govinda Bahadur Karki.

Show Cause Order Issued Against Investigation Commission

The Supreme Court has issued a show cause order in response to a writ petition filed against the Assests Investigation Commission. A single bench of Justice Bal Krishna Dhakal issued the show cause order today and invited both the sides for a discussion on May 20. Advocate Dr Prem Raj Silwal had filed the writ petition, arguing that the commission was unconstitutional and without a jurisdiction. The Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers was named as the defendant in the petition.

Protest in Maitighar Against Mukkumlung Cable Car Project

A protest was held at Maitighar in Kathmandu against the proposed cable car project at Mukkumlung (Pathibhara) in Taplejung, with demonstrators demanding an immediate halt to construction. Members of the Limbu community and environmental activists, under the “Save Mukkumlung Campaign,” said the project threatens the sacred Mundhum heritage site and the region’s fragile ecosystem, including the possible cutting of thousands of trees. Protesters argued that Mukkumlung holds deep religious and cultural significance for the Limbu and Kirat communities and must be preserved in its original form. They carried placards with slogans such as “Our Mukkumlung, Our Identity” and “We Don’t Need a Cable Car.” Participants from various ethnic groups and rights organizations joined the demonstration, warning of stronger protests if the project is not reconsidered.

Over 5,000 Public Officials Fail to Submit Property Details

The National Vigilance Center has reported that 5,265 public officials failed to submit their property details within the prescribed deadline for the fiscal year 2024/25. Out of more than 772,000 total employees and officials, 99.32 percent complied with the requirement, while the remaining 0.68 percent including 5,270 from the federal level, 458 from the provincial level, and 377 from the local level failed to do so. Secretary Suraj Kumar Vaidya presented the 298-page monitoring report to the Chief Commissioner of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA), Prem Kumar Rai, on Wednesday. Under Section 50 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 2002, public officials must submit updated property records within 60 days of the fiscal year’s end; those who missed the deadline now face legal action and potential impact on their performance evaluations.

FNJ Objects to MP’s Threat Against Newspaper

The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) issued a statement on Wednesday expressing serious concern over threats made by Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) lawmaker Jagadish Kharel against a newspaper. The FNJ labeled the MP’s threat to shut down the publication and his subsequent complaint to the police cyber bureau over news content as an attack on press freedom. The federation urged dissatisfied parties to seek resolution through Press Council Nepal rather than resorting to actions that undermine the independence of the media.

Speaker Aryal Directs to Remove ‘Unparliamentary’ Remarks of Leader Thapa

Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal has directed the Federal Parliament Secretariat to remove the unparliamentary remarks of CPN (UML) Parliamentary Party leader Ram Bahadur Thapa from record. In today’s meeting of the House of Representatives, lawmaker of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Manish Khanal, had asked the House to remove Thapa’s remarks from the record, saying the remarks put forth by leader Thapa on Tuesday were unseemly. In accordance with federal parliamentary regulations, Speaker Aryal directed the Secretariat to remove the unparliamentary remarks. Ain Mahar of the CPN (UML) had protested this move soon after lawmaker Khanal put forth his opinion.

Foreign Ministry Reviews Ongoing FY Performance in MDAC Meeting

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a meeting of its Ministerial Development Action Committee (MDAC) on Wednesday, reviewing its performance for the current fiscal year 2025/26 and discussing measures to address operational challenges. The meeting was chaired by Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal at the Ministry. Officials reviewed ongoing progress and assessed overall performance to date, while also focusing on resolving implementation hurdles affecting ministry operations and development activities. Vice Chairperson of the National Planning Commission Gunakar Bhatta attended the meeting along with senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and representatives from relevant government bodies.

Shram Sanskriti MPs Walk Out Over PM’s Absence

Lawmakers from the Shram Sanskriti Party staged a walkout from Parliament on Wednesday after Prime Minister Balendra Shah failed to appear in the House during discussions on the government’s policies and programs for the upcoming fiscal year. The protest was led by party chair Harka Sampang, who demanded the Prime Minister’s resignation after Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle prepared to respond on the Prime Minister’s behalf. Opposition lawmakers accused the Prime Minister of avoiding parliamentary accountability and demanded clarification over his whereabouts. Sampang later walked out of the chamber after Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal granted speaking time to the lead opposition.

RSP Announces First General Convention on June 21-23 in Chitwan

The ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has decided to hold its first general convention on June 21, 22, and 23 in Chitwan, coinciding with the party’s foundation day. The decision was taken at a Central Committee meeting held Wednesday morning, according to leader Ganesh Parajuli. Party chair Rabi Lamichhane had announced the party on June 21, 2022, initially forming a 21-member central committee at its establishment. At the time of its formation, RSP entered electoral politics within five months and secured 21 seats in the House of Representatives with over 1.13 million popular votes in its first general election. The party further expanded its political footprint in the latest election held on March 5, securing over 5.1 million votes and 182 seats, bringing it close to a two-thirds majority in Parliament.

Nepali Congress Central Disciplinary Committee Reshuffled

The Nepali Congress has reshuffled its central disciplinary committee. Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa on Wednesday reshuffled the central disciplinary committee constituted in accordance with the Article 34 (7) of the Nepali Congress Statute, 2017 (with amendment). The reconstituted committee comprises central member Taraman Gurung as the coordinator, and central members Dhana Khatiwada, Ramesh Prasad Dhamala and Bajarang Nepali as the members.

Five Climbers Die During 2026 Spring Mountaineering Season

At least five climbers and mountain guides have died while attempting to scale various peaks during the 2026 spring mountaineering season, according to the Nepal Tourism Board. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Information Officer Himal Gautam said the deaths occurred on Mount Everest and Mount Makalu between May 3 and the present date. Among the deceased are three Nepali climbers and guides from Solukhumbu: Lakpa Dendi Sherpa, Binaya Ghimire, and Phura Geljen Sherpa. Lakpa was associated with Seven Summit Treks, Ghimire with Tag Nepal, and Phura Geljen with Kaitu Expedition. The other victims were David Raubiken of the Czech Republic and Johannesen Shelley of the United States. According to the Department, David, who climbed through IAM Trekking Company, died at Makalu II, while Johannesen, associated with Seven Summit, died on Mount Makalu.

Nepal Tourism Board Denies Reports of New Restrictions on Indian Tourists

The Nepal Tourism Board on Wednesday dismissed circulating reports claiming Nepal imposed new restrictions on Indian tourists, calling them “false, baseless, and misleading.” The Board clarified that there is no new policy limiting stay to 30 days, no new identity card requirement at the border, and no provision for vehicle confiscation for overstays. It said Nepal’s open-border arrangement and bilateral understandings with India remain unchanged. The Board also said the government has introduced an online system developed by the Department of Customs under the Ministry of Finance to simplify temporary entry permits and payments for foreign vehicles entering via land routes. It urged media and the public to rely on official sources and avoid spreading unverified information, reiterating that Nepal remains a safe and welcoming destination for tourists.

KMC Opens Scholarship Applications for Grades 11 and 12

Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has announced that online applications for Grade 11 and 12 scholarships will be open from May 15 to May 24. The selection examination is scheduled for May 31 from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, featuring 100 objective multiple-choice questions based on the Grade 10 curriculum. According to the KMC Education Department, strict enforcement of education laws has led to a steady increase in scholarship recipients, with 20,282 students benefiting last year compared to 13,000 in the first year of implementation. In the previous academic session alone, the city distributed scholarships worth approximately Rs 2.25 billion.

Trailer of ‘Kaji’ Released Ahead of May 22 Premiere

The official trailer of the upcoming film Kaji has been released, building anticipation ahead of its nationwide release starting May 22. The 3-minute, 6-second romantic trailer, unveiled on Wednesday, highlights family relationships and the emotional dynamics of married life. The trailer features Bipin Karki as ‘Kaji’ and Keki Adhikari as ‘Kajini’, portraying a couple navigating love and conflict. Directed by Laxman Rijal and written by Pradeep Bhardwaj, the film is produced under Rijal and Rijal Production and distributed by Shree Ram Balaji Films. The cast includes several actors such as Garima Sharma and Prakash Ghimire. Earlier promotional content and the song Wari Bara Pari Pipalu had already generated strong audience interest.

Nepathya Welcomed by Maori community in New Zealand

Nepali folk-rock band Nepathya was welcomed by New Zealand’s indigenous Maori community in traditional powhiri style a day after arriving in the country. According to Nepalaya, the kapa haka group extended a spiritual musical welcome to the band. Nepathya performed at the Due Drop Events Centre in Auckland on Sunday, drawing over 2,000 attendees. The concert marked its second show in New Zealand after nearly a decade. The show opened with “Koshi Ko Pani Yo Jindagani,” and lead singer Amrit Gurung told the crowd, “If you love us, we will keep coming,” drawing loud applause. The band is now preparing to return home and has announced its next performance in Kuala Lumpur on June 1.

42nd National Badminton Tournament Begins in Kathmandu

The 42nd National Badminton Tournament, organized by the Nepal Badminton Association, commenced on Wednesday at the National Sports Council (NSC) covered hall in Tripureshwor. The event, which runs until May 16, was inaugurated by NSC Member Secretary Ram Charitra Mehta, who also unveiled the team championship trophy. A total of 115 players representing seven provinces and three departmental teams are competing across five different categories.

Two Nepali Batters Break Into ICC ODI Top 100 Rankings

For the first time, two Nepali cricketers, Aasif Sheikh and Dipendra Singh Airee, have secured positions in the Top 100 of the ICC ODI Batting Rankings updated on Wednesday. Following strong performances in the League 2 series at home, Aasif Sheikh climbed 13 spots to 93rd place, while Dipendra Singh Airee moved up two spots to 99th. Aasif’s ranking was bolstered by a 94-run innings against Oman, while Dipendra’s rise follows a century against the UAE and a half-century against Oman. Additionally, Dipendra holds the 28th position in the All-rounder rankings, and Sandeep Lamichhane is ranked 42nd in the Bowling category.

Sri Lanka Reports Over 27,000 Dengue Cases, 14 Deaths This Year

Sri Lanka has recorded 27,754 dengue cases and 14 deaths so far in 2026, with infections reported across all 25 districts, health officials said on Tuesday. The National Dengue Control Unit said cases have increased compared to 2025, with the highest numbers reported from the Western Province, along with significant spread in Matara, Galle, Ratnapura, Kalutara and Kandy. Officials warned that the onset of monsoon rains could further accelerate transmission, as breeding has increased in schools, workplaces, and institutions more than in households, driven largely by poor waste management. Health authorities urged the public to seek immediate medical attention if fever is accompanied by symptoms such as headache, muscle pain, vomiting, nausea, or skin rashes.

Philippine Senate Locked Down After Security Operation Amid ICC-Linked Case

The Philippine Senate was placed under lockdown on Wednesday after security forces entered the building amid a developing situation involving Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Military and police personnel were deployed around and inside the Senate complex in Manila, while reports of gunfire prompted heightened security, though authorities confirmed no casualties and no arrests in connection with the incident. Dela Rosa, a key figure linked to the country’s anti-drug campaign under former President Rodrigo Duterte, is accused by the ICC of involvement in killings during the campaign. Duterte has already been held at The Hague since March 2025. The Senate building remained sealed as lawmakers stayed inside, while authorities said the operation was intended to secure the premises rather than arrest the senator. Officials also said investigations into the gunfire are ongoing.

Trump Arrives in Beijing for High-Stakes Talks with Xi Jinping

US President Donald Trump arrived in Beijing on Wednesday evening for a two-day visit aimed at holding high-level talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on trade, technology rivalry, the Iran conflict, and tensions over Taiwan. Trump was welcomed by Chinese Vice-President Han Zheng, alongside senior officials and US business leaders, in a display seen as a significant diplomatic gesture compared to his previous visit in 2017. The agenda is expected to focus on easing tariff tensions, expanding Chinese purchases of US agricultural goods, and US restrictions on Chinese exports while also addressing Beijing’s ties with Iran amid ongoing regional conflict affecting global energy routes. The meeting also comes against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical competition over Taiwan and broader strategic influence in the Indo-Pacific region.