Opinion | Political reform as economic strategy
Summary
Nepal faces a critical choice to reform its political system by reducing provincial governments and parliamentary size to enhance economic progress and governance efficiency.
Key Points
- Nepal's current seven-province federal system creates costly administrative bottlenecks that hinder economic development.
- Provincial governments consume 15-20% of the federal budget without commensurate benefits, diverting funds from vital sectors like infrastructure and healthcare.
- The large parliament with 334 members fosters political survival over economic logic, leading to policy delays and inefficiencies.
- Proposed reforms include eliminating provinces, reducing parliament size, appointing technocratic ministers, and allowing only independent candidates in local elections to improve governance and economic outcomes.
