While Nepal’s government has remained politically stable for a year, the administration within the Ministry of Finance is experiencing extreme instability.
In just one week, over 80 officials, including senior-level staff, were transferred, creating uncertainty about postings and responsibilities. Finance Minister Bishnu Poudel has personally overseen these widespread changes.
Earlier, 12 joint-secretaries were reassigned, and shortly after, 68 under-secretaries were also transferred. Notable moves include:
- Rajendra Dhungana, former chief customs officer at Birgunj, was moved to the ministry, with Kajibabu Koirala taking his place at Tribhuvan Airport Customs.
- Mahesh Bhattarai, appointed as Director General of the Customs Department, was transferred after six months. Shyam Bhandari, previously heading the Ministry’s Planning and Monitoring Division, was appointed Director General.
- Several other senior officials, including deputy directors and heads of key departments, were reassigned across customs, internal revenue, and budget offices.
These repeated transfers, especially within the Customs Department, raise concerns about the continuity of policy implementation. Analysts warn that frequent staff reshuffling could disrupt budget execution, programs, and planned initiatives.
Experts note that while political stability exists, such administrative turbulence may undermine the government’s ability to achieve its financial and development goals.
