Five joint secretaries vie for Kathmandu CDO

Kathmandu, September 4 — Chief District Officer Jitendra Basnet, who has been serving in Kathmandu, has completed his tenure. Basnet, who began his assignment at the District Administration Office Kathmandu on July 6, 2023, is being transferred by the Ministry of Home Affairs after 14 months in the role.

The position of Chief District Officer for Kathmandu has sparked competition among joint secretaries of the Ministry of Home Affairs. According to ministry officials, five joint secretaries are vying for the position.

The contenders are Joint Secretaries Jayanarayan Acharya, Prem Prasad Bhattarai, Dr. Bhishma Kumar Bhusal, Koshhari Niraula, and Ramchandra Tiwari. Jayanarayan Acharya, the Director General of the Prison Management Department, is currently leading the competition. Acharya is originally from Jumla.

Prem Prasad Bhattarai, who is currently the CDO of Morang, has expressed a strong desire to be appointed to Kathmandu. Chief District Officer of Sunsari, Ramchandra Tiwari, and Director General of the Immigration Department, Koshahari Niraula, are also in contention. Sources close to Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak suggest that Acharya is the leading candidate for the position.

Why the Attraction?

The role of Chief District Officer in Kathmandu is highly sought after due to its prominence and the extensive network it provides. This position involves interaction with both the ruling and opposition parties, and it allows the officer to build relationships with influential figures across the country. The Chief District Officer of Kathmandu is recognized by the President and the Prime Minister and plays a key role in state-organized ceremonies and security management.

For many joint secretaries, being appointed to Kathmandu offers access to high-level officials and politicians, as well as opportunities to engage with industrialists and business leaders. The Chief District Officer also oversees the Kathmandu District Police Range, which includes 14 police circles, and works closely with various police units.

The role involves handling cases related to public offenses, breaches of peace, and gambling-related crimes which adds to the position's appeal due to the significant responsibility and visibility associated with it.