Kathmandu, Nov. 7 -- Kulman Ghising, minister for energy, water resources, and irrigation, is preparing to launch a new political party. Though he had explored uniting various other alternative forces, he reportedly chose to proceed on his own, doubting a consensus with other groups was achievable.

Sources close to Ghising said he decided to register a separate party after the talks with the Rastriya Swatantra Party couldn't make any headway. "The to-be-formed party will likely use the light bulb as its election symbol under the name Ujyaalo Nepal Party," one associate said. They hope the symbol helps branding the new organisation. The registration was submitted to the Election Commission in September.

Sources said Ghising has yet to de...