UML will make all possible efforts to form government: Bishnu Poudel

KATHMANDU: CPN-UML Vice President Bishnu Poudel has said that his party will make all possible efforts to form the next government under its leadership.

Talking to Himal Press, Poudel said since UML is behind Nepali Congress by a few seats, either of the party can take initiative to form the government.

“It is still possible for the UML to form government by forming an alliance with other parties. I cannot say more as I have not discussed the matter with the party chairman,” Poudel said, adding: “But UML won’t remain a mute spectator allowing others to form the government. We will definitely make needful efforts.”

Commenting on foreign interests in government formation, Poudel said foreign forces can do nothing if we are strong and capable. “Foreign forces can do nothing if we form the government on our own. But if we seek their support, they will definitely look to play,” added Poudel.

Poudel also denied accusations that most of the second-rung leaders of the party faced defeat due to intra-party competition.

Though most of the party’s office-bearers lost the election, Poudel was victorious in Rupandehi-2. “Despite all the efforts to fail us, we have managed to become the second largest party in the parliament. We will respect people’s verdict,” he said, adding: “We will be able to say how state machineries were used in the election only after the overall review of the election.”

Poudel also denied accusations that most of the second-rung leaders of the party faced defeat due to intra-party competition. “We may have differences, but we won’t go to that extent. It’s not our culture,” he said, adding: “If any leader is found involved in such works, we will take needful actions.”