Deadline Passed for Asset Investigation and Apology; How Is Bureaucratic Coordination on New Government’s Reform Efforts?
Several tasks from the government’s announced ‘100-Point Agenda for Administrative Reform’ have not been completed within the stipulated timeframe. After Balen Shah’s appointment as Prime Minister, the first cabinet meeting held on Chaitra 13 set the schedule to complete these 100 tasks on time. According to Madhusudan Burlakoti, the secretary who was transferred from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies to the Election Commission last week, many of the reform issues within these 100 points were proposed by the relevant ministries. He shared that he too had submitted some proposals on behalf of his ministry, stating, “The agenda for administrative reform includes topics raised by the ministries as well as some points mentioned in the Prime Minister’s manifesto.” Therefore, the responsibility to implement these reforms lies with the respective ministries. “Where technical issues arose with certain matters, these problems were formally noted on time, and we trust that they will receive attention,” Burlakoti added.
Despite nearly two weeks having passed since the government was formed, many important initiatives remain incomplete. Most of these are politically sensitive tasks. What were the tasks scheduled to be done within 15 days? Point 5 specifies: “Formally acknowledge state, social, and policy-based injustices, discrimination, and deprivation of opportunities faced by Dalit and historically excluded communities, and announce a reform-oriented program with an official apology within 15 days to lay the foundation for social justice, inclusive restitution, and historical reconciliation.” Point 7 mandates: “Establish a high-level inquiry committee within one week to investigate the events that occurred on Bhadra 24, 2082 (September 9, 2025).”
Former Home Secretary Umesh Prasad Mainali considers the steps taken by the Balen government appropriate. He claims the decision to remove self-serving ministers and alert others sends a positive message, reflecting a government that is strict and decisive. “However, a well-thought-out plan and strategy are preferable to immature decisions,” Mainali advised regarding personnel management, “Employees should be encouraged through orientation rather than feared.” He noted that senior officials in the bureaucracy have conveyed messages along the lines of ‘there is no need to be afraid.’ This, he believes, will help achieve government goals; otherwise, there is a risk of failure like previous administrations.
According to Secretary Burlakoti, the set deadlines will aid in meeting the targets. He described the Prime Minister and ministers as disciplined and organized. Although some employees may have to work harder, many are progressing without obstacles under the Prime Minister and government’s directives. “We also need to observe their pace,” he said. “Based on what is circulating in the market, I have not noticed any doubt within the bureaucracy.”
