KATHMANDU (Nov 3): Nepal’s Prime Minister Sushila Karki has instructed all ministries and government agencies to immediately implement austerity measures, strengthen transparency, and ensure the productive use of public funds.
During a high-level review meeting with ministers and secretaries on Sunday, Karki urged officials to uphold the people’s mandate for prosperity, good governance, equality, and corruption control, calling for “visible improvements” in service delivery and accountability.
The Prime Minister issued a 14-point directive aimed at reshaping administrative efficiency and restoring public trust in institutions. She asked ministries to prepare a clear blueprint for reform, one that citizens can experience tangibly through faster, more transparent government services.
Emphasising cooperation with the private sector, Karki said improving the investment climate and rebuilding public confidence were top priorities. She directed that all transfers, promotions, and appointments be carried out transparently and strictly on merit.
Addressing post-protest reconstruction, the Prime Minister instructed officials to assess damages caused during the Gen Z protests and draft a reconstruction plan. She also demanded uninterrupted delivery of essential services, using emergency procurement or alternative mechanisms if needed.
On election preparedness, Karki said she has been holding regular consultations with the Election Commission, political parties, and security agencies to ensure a peaceful and credible general election scheduled for March 2025.
The Prime Minister further ordered ministries to review their annual action plans, convene all statutory council meetings, and strengthen diplomatic coordination with new ministers and provincial leaders.
“All criminal activities must be firmly controlled to uphold the rule of law — there can be no compromise on that,” Karki said, calling for the merger or removal of unnecessary administrative structures to boost efficiency.
Addressing civil servants directly, she added, “You are the permanent government. Fulfil your responsibilities with integrity, knowledge, and dedication.”