Nepal, April 5 -- Jokh Bahadur Mahara of the ruling CPN (Maoist Centre) has been appointed as the chief minister of Lumbini Province.

Mahara was sworn in to the post by Province Head Amik Sherchan on Friday as per Article 168 (2) of the constitution of Nepal.

On Thursday, outgoing Chief Minister Dilli Bahadur Chaudhary resigned from the post citing change in the political alliance.

After Chaudhary stepped down, the Maoist Centre leader staked a claim to lead the new provincial government with the signatures of 48 provincial assembly members.

Support from 44 members is required for a government formation in the 87-member assembly.

A total of 27 CPN-UML assembly members, 10 of Maoist Centre, four of the Nagarik Unmukti Party, three fro...