KATHMANDU: The CPN-UML has chosen to withdraw support for Lumbini's provincial government. This decision prompted five UML ministers in the provincial parliament to quit. The move comes after Jokh Bahadur Mahara of the CPN (Maoist Center) was appointed Chief Minister of the province on Chaitra 23 with the initial support of 48 lawmakers.

Initially, Mahara secured his position with backing from 29 UML lawmakers, alongside support from the Maoist Center, JSP, Nagarik Unmukti Party, CPN (Unified Socialist), and an independent lawmaker. However, after the UML withdrew its support, Mahara lost his majority in the provincial parliament.

The decision by the CPN-UML to withdraw support is consistent with their recent federal coalition with the Nepali Congress. According to their agreement, the UML would take over control of the administration in Lumbini province.