KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Oli’s cabinet features nine new ministers, including five from the Nepali Congress party and four from CPN-UML.
Although the introduction of these new faces aims to convey a positive message, there are concerns about the inadequate representation of Dalits and Muslims, as well as the low number of women in the cabinet.
Unfortunately, the efforts to refresh the cabinet have been overshadowed by two controversial ministers: Sharat Singh Bhandari, the Minister of Labor, Employment, and Social Security; and Deepak Khadka, the Minister of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, which has negatively impacted the government’s image.
Bhandari was appointed on behalf of the Loktantrik Samajwadi Paryt, while Khadka, a leader of the Nepali Congress, was chosen from Dr. Shashank Koirala’s quota.
Their inclusion has raised serious questions about the integrity of the Oli government.
The presence of such controversial figures in a cabinet that aims to promote good governance and combat corruption casts doubt on the government’s intentions.
Bhandari has been criticized for facilitating exploitation among young people seeking employment abroad in collusion with middlemen.
Key questions arise: Why did PM Oli feel the need to appoint Bhandari as a minister representing LSP, which holds only four seats, when Nepali Congress and UML are united in Parliament?
Bhandari, who has served as a minister 19 times during both the Panchayat and multi-party eras, raises concerns about the motivations behind his appointment.
Why couldn’t Deuba and Oli agree that Bhandari should not be appointed, even if it meant selecting someone from Mahantha Thakur’s LSP? This reflects poorly on the major parties involved.
Similarly, why did the Nepali Congress endorse the controversial Deepak Khadka for such a sensitive ministry, and why did Prime Minister Oli accept this nomination?
It may be recalled that Nepali Congress called for Rabi Lamichhane to resign as Home Minister on ethical grounds due to conflicts of interest, yet proceeded to place Khadka in the Energy Ministry.
These questions underscore the complexities and contradictions within the current government, raising serious concerns about its direction and priorities.
Who is Deepak Khadka?
Energy Minister Deepak Khadka is a Nepali Congress MP elected from Sankhuwasabha.
In 2073 BS, he served as the Minister of Water Supply in the government led by Sher Bahadur Deuba.
Despite potential conflicts of interest, Khadka has been appointed to lead the Energy Ministry.
Khadka is the founder and chairman of Langtang Bhotekoshi Hydropower Company and Menchiyam Hydro Power Limited.
He also serves as an advisor to IPPAN, an association of power producers, and his companies operate several small hydropower projects in Sankhuwasabha.
This raises concerns about self-interest when hydropower businessmen are placed in charge of the Ministry of Energy.
Allegations of Land Usurpation
In addition to his role in the energy sector, Khadka has been accused of usurping government land in Lainchaur, Kathmandu.
He has been operating the “Lainchaur Banquet” by leasing 3 ropani of land from the Nepal Scouts but has allegedly occupied an additional 9 acres of public land for the past 15 years. Reports indicate that he may owe 63 million rupees for this land grab.
Nepali Congress leader Dr. Shashank Koirala has frequently organized events at this banquet.
Although the police intervened previously, it remains to be seen whether Khadka will misuse his ministerial power to continue his activities on public land or if legal actions will be pursued against him.
Controversies surrounding Labor Minister
Labor Minister Saratsingh Bhandari, who previously held the same ministry, is also embroiled in controversy.
He has been criticized for facilitating exploitation among young people seeking employment abroad in collusion with middlemen.
When Bhandari served as Labor Minister, he increased the orientation training fee for youths seeking foreign employment from Rs 700 to Rs 2,800.
If Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is serious about combating corruption and promoting good governance, he must urge Nepali Congress and LSP to reconsider their controversial ministers.
However, then Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal intervened to prevent the implementation of this decision.
Bhandari, a former Panchayat member, later joined the Nepali Congress and has since served as a minister multiple times.
He later switched to the Madhesi People’s Rights Forum and continued his ministerial career.
Currently, he is affiliated with LSP, led by Mahantha Thakur.
Despite his history of controversy, he has been given a ministerial position again, raising concerns about his commitment to good governance.
Bhandari’s past decisions have faced scrutiny, yet he continues to hold a position in the same ministry, creating a conflict of interest.
Leaders from major parties often prioritize their interests over the people’s needs once they gain a majority.
If Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is serious about combating corruption and promoting good governance, he must urge Nepali Congress and LSP to reconsider their controversial ministers.
Otherwise, the government’s reputation may suffer due to these appointments.
Supreme Court’s directive on ministerial conflict of interest
The Supreme Court has mandated that a law addressing ministerial conflict of interest be established.
In a writ filed against former Home Minister Lamichhane, the court ordered the government to create legislation regarding this issue.
Judges Sapana Pradhan Malla and Sharanga Subedi stated that while there is existing law on conflict of interest, it is essential to initiate further legislation in line with the Good Governance Arrangement and Operation Act, 2064.
A directive was issued to the Ministry of Justice and Parliamentary Affairs and the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers.
With this order from the Supreme Court, the Oli government is obligated to implement it.
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