Nepal is set to begin its new parliamentary session, with preparations complete for the oath-taking of newly elected members of the House of Representatives. However, the country’s new parliament building remains unfinished, forcing authorities to arrange a temporary venue.
A multipurpose hall inside the under-construction parliament complex at Singha Durbar has been readied for both the oath ceremony and upcoming sessions. Seating and furniture are in place, while installation of microphones, cameras and display systems is in its final stage. The hall is designed to host both separate meetings of the House and joint sessions with the National Assembly if required.
In line with constitutional provisions, the session must be convened within 30 days of the final election results. Officials have planned the oath-taking for March 26, with all arrangements reportedly complete.
The need for a temporary hall comes after the previous parliament venue in New Baneshwor was destroyed during unrest last year. That building had been used as a rented facility after earlier sessions shifted from Singha Durbar due to space constraints.
Meanwhile, construction of the new parliament building, launched in 2019 with a three-year deadline, continues to face delays. Although physical progress has crossed 90 per cent, the structure is still not ready. The project, estimated at around $38 million, is now in its sixth year.
Until the permanent building is completed, Nepal’s lawmakers will begin their new term in an interim space, highlighting ongoing delays in one of the country’s key national projects.