Power centralisation impeding provincial development: CMs
Summary
Chief ministers from Nepal’s seven provinces say the federal government’s failure to devolve powers and pass key laws is weakening provincial governments and slowing development. They plan a joint visit to Kathmandu to press for administrative autonomy, fiscal transfers and clearer authority under federalism.
Key Points
- Chief ministers at an inter-provincial conference in Biratnagar said provinces are being weakened economically and administratively because powers guaranteed by the Constitution have not been fully transferred.
- Koshi Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki and Gandaki Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pandey criticised the federal government for delaying key laws on civil service, police, education and health.
- Leaders from Madhes, Bagmati, Lumbini and Karnali provinces said unclear jurisdiction, restricted fiscal authority and lack of cooperation are hindering service delivery and development.
- The conference will issue the Biratnagar Declaration and send representatives from all seven provinces to Kathmandu to demand devolution and stronger provincial rights.
