Kathmandu: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba held a significant meeting at Baluwatar following their return from Bangkok, Thailand. The meeting, attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel and Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, focused on making the existing power partnership stronger and more effective.

Finance Minister Poudel informed that both leaders agreed the rumors of a government change were false and baseless. Recent statements from opposition leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Chairman of the CPN (Maoist Center), had fueled speculation by claiming that the government would topple after Deuba's return from Thailand. However, today's meeting firmly rejected such claims.

"The leaders emphasized that the government remains stable, and there is no reason to believe the baseless rumors of a change," said Deputy Prime Minister Poudel.

While Deuba was still in Bangkok, PM Oli had phoned him to discuss these circulating rumors. Upon his return, the meeting between the two leaders was seen as a strong signal of cooperation, despite some underlying frustrations within Congress regarding Oli's work style and governance approach.

Addressing the UML parliamentary party meeting in Baneshwor on Saturday, Prime Minister Oli directly attacked those spreading misinformation:

"Until yesterday, they were trying to ignite the fire, claiming the government would fall as soon as Deuba returned," Oli said. "But now, those who made the noise are confused and helpless."

He further added that Mission 2084 (referring to upcoming political and electoral goals) should be the focus, not rumors about the government's collapse.

"Don't get caught up in rumors," Oli told his party members. "The responsibility of whether the government stays or falls lies with us. You should focus on preparing for elections and working for the people."

Oli mockingly mentioned that Prachanda and other leaders, after hearing Deuba dismiss the rumors of government change, were left "holding their heads" in disappointment and confusion.

As things stand, the current coalition remains intact, but subtle dissatisfaction from within — especially from some Congress leaders — indicates that while the top leadership is showing unity, tensions are simmering under the surface.