Nepal’s government, led by Prime Minister Balen Shah, has announced a sweeping investigation into the assets of politicians and senior officials dating back to 2006 (2062/63 BS), in what is being seen as a major anti-corruption move targeting unexplained wealth and financial transparency.
The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting held earlier today, as authorities move to scrutinise nearly two decades of public office holders amid growing public concern over corruption and accountability.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, government spokesperson and Education Minister Sasmita Pokharel said a high-level Asset Investigation Commission has been formed to collect, verify and examine property details of individuals who held key public positions between 2006 and 2025 (2062/63–2082/83 BS).
The five-member commission will be led by former Supreme Court judge Rajendra Kumar Bhandari.
Other members include former judges Purushottam Parajuli and Chandhiraj Dhakal, former Deputy Inspector General of Police Ganesh KC, and chartered accountant Prakash Lamsal.
Earlier in the day, a cabinet meeting was convened in Kathmandu, where the government took several key policy decisions alongside the formation of the commission.
Major step on corruption and accountability
According to officials, the commission will assess whether assets owned by politicians and senior bureaucrats match their declared income sources.
Any mismatch or unexplained wealth could lead to further legal and administrative action, although detailed procedures are yet to be announced.
The period under investigation begins after Nepal’s political transition in 2006, making the probe significant in evaluating governance and financial conduct during the republic era.
Other key Cabinet decisions
- Nepal will accept a grant of approximately 1 million Swiss francs from the Swiss government to support transitional justice and reconciliation mechanisms.
- Several officials from the Inland Revenue Department and tax offices have been designated as excise officers to strengthen revenue administration.
- The Cabinet approved the Financial Procedures and Fiscal Responsibility (Third Amendment) Regulations 2025.
- A Nepal–India agreement on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters will be presented to Parliament.
- The government endorsed the National Standards for Organization and Management 2025.
In a separate decision, a committee led by former High Court judge Prem Raj Karki has been formed to review and recommend implementation of an investigation report related to recent security incidents.
Public reaction and expectations
Experts say the large-scale asset probe could become a turning point in Nepal’s fight against corruption if implemented effectively.
However, previous attempts at similar investigations have often faced political pressure and weak enforcement, raising questions about whether this initiative will deliver concrete results.
For now, the announcement has generated strong public interest, with many hoping it will lead to greater transparency, accountability and trust in government institutions.
