Kathmandu — Prime Minister Sushila Karki has said that the most urgent reforms in Nepal’s governance system must begin within Singha Durbar, the central administrative hub of the government, citing growing politicization and inefficiency within the bureaucracy.
Speaking in an interview with the National News Agency (Rastriya Samachar Samiti), Karki said the functioning of the bureaucracy often slows down decision-making and creates obstacles for government work.
According to the prime minister, senior officials frequently complicate administrative processes by circulating files repeatedly or presenting multiple options when personal interests are involved, while dismissing proposals related to national interests by claiming they are not feasible.
“From what I have experienced, nearly 75 percent of the obstacles to government work originate from within that system,” Karki said.
Good Governance, Corruption Control and Jobs Must Be Priorities
Karki stressed that good governance, corruption control, and job creation must be the top priorities for the incoming government. She said unemployment remains one of Nepal’s most serious challenges and warned that favoritism and nepotism continue to limit fair access to opportunities.
“The country’s economic situation must improve, and meaningful employment opportunities should be created for young people. At the same time, open and visible corruption must be stopped,” she said.
The prime minister also raised concerns about the persistent delays in completing development projects in Nepal. She said that although the government received limited support during her tenure, it created an environment that allowed the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) to pursue several major corruption cases.
According to Karki, more than 40 corruption-related cases were registered after the current government came to power. She said Nepal’s civil service must become more efficient and accountable, adding that major structural reforms in the bureaucracy are necessary.
Prime Minister Says She Fulfilled Her Responsibilities
Reflecting on her tenure, Karki said she assumed office during a difficult period and had fulfilled the responsibilities expected of her as prime minister. She also indicated that she plans to return to her previous private life.
Responding to speculation about a possible future presidential bid, she said she has no such ambitions. “There are many capable people who have not yet received opportunities,” she said.
Karki noted that the government’s responsibility to conduct elections has been fulfilled. She said future governments must focus on creating employment opportunities within Nepal so that young people can build their lives in the country rather than being forced to seek work abroad.
She added that the situation in which Nepali citizens travel overseas for employment and sometimes return in coffins must come to an end.
Calls for Education Reform and National Unity
The prime minister also emphasized the need for reforms in the education sector and for rebuilding public confidence in the country’s future. She said Nepal possesses abundant natural beauty and resources that can support development if used effectively.
Karki concluded by expressing hope that the country will remain free from conflict and tension and that people can live together peacefully.
Referring to the recent political campaign led by Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah, she said it conveyed a message of unity among people from the Terai, hills, and mountains, adding that she has confidence that positive change could emerge from such efforts.
