KATHMANDU: Nepal Association of Humphrey Fellows (NAHF) brought together members of the Federal Parliament and accountability experts on a virtual discussion titled “Understanding Sustainable Development” on September 28 to discuss issues of accountability and public services delivery.
Nepali Congress lawmaker Gagan Thapa shared his experience of working as Minister of Health and Population and emphasized the need to exhibit political will to maintain transparency.
In absence of transparency, even the good actions may not be rewarded, he said.
Dr. Dila Sangroula, member of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee, highlighted the importance of following election manifestos.
Likewise, Dr. Bimala Rai Paudyal, a member of the National Assembly and former member of the National Planning Commission, talked about the legal and procedural complications that often hinder service delivery.
Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) at the US Embassy in Kathmandu, Manuel Micaller emphasized on enforcing laws that promote accountability so that people in authorities would not abuse their power.
“Corruption, malfeasance, and ineptitude thrive in dark rooms and behind closed doors, which is why democracies must encourage transparency at all levels,” DCM Micaller said.
The virtual event was attended by opinion-makers and governance practitioners, professors, journalists, civil society members.
NAHF has partnered with the Public Affairs Section (PAS) at the US Embassy to organize programs to promote free, transparent, and sustainable practices.
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