President Addresses Joint Session of Both Houses of Federal Parliament

Address to joint parliament highlights youth frustration, corruption risks and urgent need for economic and governance reforms

Ram Chandra Poudel has issued a stark warning on governance, unemployment and corruption while addressing a joint session of Nepal’s federal parliament, signaling urgent reform needs. The address matters as it sets the tone for the newly formed government following recent elections.

Speaking at the joint meeting of the House of Representatives and National Assembly at Singha Durbar, the President outlined deep public expectations and growing risks if reforms are delayed.

Governance and corruption concerns intensify

Poudel emphasized that public demand for transparent governance, effective service delivery and corruption control has reached a critical point. He warned that failure to act could weaken public trust in democratic institutions.

He stressed that laws must not only be passed but implemented effectively, highlighting long-standing gaps between policy and execution.

The President also underscored the need for faster and independent justice delivery, linking it directly to honoring past democratic struggles and sacrifices.

Youth frustration and employment crisis highlighted

A major focus of the address was the rising frustration among young people, particularly due to unemployment and lack of opportunities.

Poudel noted that traditional sectors can no longer absorb the growing workforce, calling for education reform and new job creation strategies aligned with market demands.

He warned that continued youth outmigration could weaken the country’s long-term development unless urgent steps are taken to create opportunities within Nepal.

Political transition signals generational shift

The President pointed to the newly elected parliament’s strong youth representation as a historic shift in Nepal’s political landscape.

He said this reflects increasing trust and participation from younger generations, but also raises expectations for accountability, performance and results.

The recent elections, held after a period of political instability and interim governance, were described as peaceful and credible, restoring a fresh public mandate.

Call for unity amid global and domestic challenges

Poudel also addressed broader challenges, including global instability, climate change and diplomatic balance, urging the government to prioritize national interest in foreign relations.

He called for unity among political parties and institutions, warning that internal divisions could derail progress toward stability and economic growth.

Reform push seen as defining moment

Concluding his address, the President urged all stakeholders to move forward collectively, focusing on good governance, development and social justice.

The speech signals a defining moment for Nepal’s new government, with clear pressure to deliver reforms quickly or risk deepening public dissatisfaction.