What are the main functions of the National Assembly?

The National Assembly is a unique and powerful constitutional body in Nepal, established under the Constitution of Nepal (2072). It plays a crucial role in the federal democratic republic system by performing several key functions:

1. Legislative Functions

The National Assembly participates in law-making by:

• Passing laws and amendments: It can propose, debate, and approve bills, especially those related to federalism, provincial boundaries, and constitutional amendments.
• Budget approval: It reviews and approves the national budget and financial bills, ensuring fiscal accountability.
• Ratifying treaties: It approves international agreements and treaties, safeguarding national sovereignty.

2. Executive Functions

The Assembly holds the executive accountable through:

• Supervision of the Council of Ministers: It can question ministers, debate policies, and even remove them through a no-confidence motion (though this requires a two-thirds majority).
• Appointment approvals: It approves key appointments such as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, members of the Election Commission, and Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA).
• Policy oversight: It ensures that government actions align with constitutional principles and public interest.

3. Judicial Functions

The Assembly has limited judicial powers, including:

• Impeachment of high officials: It can remove the President, Chief Justice, and other high-ranking officials (e.g., Prime Minister, Chief Election Commissioner) through a two-thirds majority vote.
• Removal of CIAA members: It can dismiss members of the CIAA if they fail to perform duties properly.

4. Constitutional Functions

The National Assembly acts as a guardian of federalism by:

• Amending the Constitution: It can propose constitutional changes (with a two-thirds majority), ensuring the system evolves with national needs.
• Resolving federal disputes: It plays a role in settling conflicts between federal and provincial governments, maintaining unity in diversity.

Special Role in Federalism

Unlike the House of Representatives, the National Assembly represents provincial and local governments, ensuring decentralization and inclusive governance. It meets once every five years (or when called by the President) and has 88 members (40 directly elected + 48 nominated by provincial assemblies).

In summary, the National Assembly ensures balance of power, democratic accountability, and constitutional integrity in Nepal’s federal system. Its functions reinforce the checks and balances mechanism, preventing any single institution from becoming too powerful.