Political Rift Emerges Over Karnali's Administrative Restructuring

Committee Report Sparks Government Division

A recent report by Karnali Province's High-Level Organization and Management Survey Committee has created tension between the ruling coalition partners, CPN-UML and Nepali Congress. While Chief Minister Yamlal Kandel insists on implementing the report's recommendations, Congress ministers in his cabinet have publicly opposed the proposed reforms, calling them impractical.

Controversial Reform Proposals

The committee recommends drastic changes to Karnali's administrative structure:

• Reducing ministries from 8 to 6

• Eliminating redundant directorates and offices scattered across the province

• Capping total government employees at 2,500
  These suggestions have drawn sharp criticism from various employee unions and Ayurvedic doctors who fear for their job security and career prospects.

Implementation Committee Formed Amid Opposition

Despite Congress ministers' objections, CM Kandel has established an "Implementation and Facilitation Committee" led by Governance Reform Secretary Laxmikumar Wik. The committee includes Law Secretary Birendra KC and Planning Secretary Ravilal Sharma. Member KC confirmed ongoing discussions about feasible implementation strategies.

Congress Ministers Dig In Their Heels

Social Development Minister Ghanshyam Bhandari from Congress has been particularly vocal, declaring the report "impossible to implement." This public rejection by a ruling party minister casts doubt on the reform initiative's future. Congress parliamentary leader Jivan Bahadur Shahi previously dismissed the report as a "revolutionary document" that only creates panic among civil servants.

Behind-the-Scenes Conflict

Interestingly, the cabinet - including Congress ministers - had unanimously approved forming the implementation committee. A UML minister accused Congress of behaving "more like opposition than coalition partners," suggesting they deliberately undermine reform efforts after agreeing to them in meetings.

CM Kandel's Determined Stance

Chief Minister Kandel remains committed to implementing the report's positive aspects, though not necessarily in full. He argues the reforms are essential to address criticism about Karnali's bloated, inefficient administration. "We created a system where every window had ministry signboards," Kandel said, referring to past excesses. "Now we must correct this distortion."

Uncertain Future for Reforms

The public disagreement between the chief minister and his coalition partners leaves Karnali's administrative restructuring in limbo. While Kandel promises gradual implementation of practical recommendations, Congress's resistance threatens to derail what was intended as a cost-saving measure for the financially strained province.