“New Government, Old Practices? RSP Faces Test on Political Appointments and Governance Reform”

As the Rastriya Swatantra Party prepares to form a new government, its leaders have begun signaling a major shift in how state appointments will be handled. Party officials indicate that individuals appointed under previous governments may be asked to step aside to allow space for more competent, independent, and merit-based candidates. A review of existing political appointments is currently underway as part of this effort.

The party’s stance aligns with its election manifesto, which emphasizes legal reforms to strengthen transparency, accountability, and institutional independence. It has pledged to amend laws governing key constitutional bodies to ensure that appointments are based on qualifications and integrity rather than political connections.

However, governance experts warn that long-standing practices such as favoritism, conflict of interest, and last-minute appointments during government transitions remain deeply rooted. Several past cases have highlighted how individuals without relevant expertise were placed in important roles, raising concerns about institutional efficiency and credibility.

Questions have also been raised about appointments in bodies like the Supreme Court of Nepal, where disputes over constitutional positions have previously reached the judiciary. Analysts believe that the upcoming appointment of the Chief Justice will serve as a crucial test of the new government’s commitment to reform.

With a strong public mandate, expectations are high that the incoming administration will deliver meaningful changes. Whether it can move beyond traditional political practices and establish a transparent, merit-based system will ultimately determine its success in restoring public trust and strengthening governance.

Source : Online Khabar