JSP’s Pradeep Yadav sworn in as health minister

KATHMANDU: Two lawmakers of the newly-formed Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) have joined the Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led government.

President Ram Chandra Paudel administered the oath of office and secrecy to Minister for Health and Population Pradeep Yadav amid a ceremony at the Office of the President on Monday.

Likewise, Hasina Khan has taken oath as the Minister of State for Health and Population.

Although the party had also sent the name of Ranju Jha for appointment as a minister, she has not been inducted into Dahal’s cabinet yet.

JSP Nepal’s Vice Chairperson Ashok Kumar Rai announced a split from the party and registered the JSP with the Election Commission last week.

JSP Nepal’s Nawal Kishor Sah Sudi, who has joined the new party, will continue in the cabinet. However, JSP Nepal’s Chairperson Upendra Yadav and Deepak Karki have stepped down. Yadav was the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health and Population in Dahal’s cabinet, while Karki was the Minister of State for Health and Population.