KATHMANDU: Internal disagreements within the CPN-UML have delayed the implementation of a power-sharing agreement with the Nepal Communist Party (NCP), nearly two weeks after the two sides reached a deal on provincial governments.

Under the agreement, the UML is set to lead the governments in Koshi, Bagmati and Lumbini, while the NCP will head Karnali and Sudurpashchim. However, disputes over the selection of chief ministers in Koshi and Bagmati have stalled the process.

The delay stems from differences within the UML over party chairman KP Sharma Oli’s reported preference for appointing leaders close to him, a move that has drawn criticism from several senior party figures who have called for broader internal consultation before key decisions are made.

In Koshi, Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki has refused to resign amid reports that the party leadership wants to replace him. Similar uncertainty persists in Bagmati, where disagreements over the party’s leadership have complicated government formation.

Meanwhile, the NCP says it has no internal disagreements and has already installed a new chief minister in Karnali. Party leaders have urged the UML to resolve its internal issues quickly to allow the coalition to complete government formation across the remaining provinces.

Discussions on forming governments in Madhesh and Gandaki provinces are expected to continue after the coalition finalises leadership arrangements in the five other provinces.