KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Sushila Karki has stated that Nepal has sufficient structures to control corruption but emphasized the need for stronger accountability within government institutions.
Addressing the 35th anniversary program of the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA), PM Karki questioned why corruption remains relatively unchecked despite existing legal and policy frameworks. “Why did young people have to take to the streets demanding anti-corruption measures on September 8 and 9?” she asked.
She stressed that the primary responsibility for controlling corruption lies with the executive branch of the government. “Every head of a department or office must take responsibility for curbing corruption within their institution and its structures,” she said.
PM Karki added that looking solely to external bodies, rather than strengthening executive mechanisms, will not achieve the desired reforms. “For every act of corruption or bribery in an office, the head of that office is responsible. This understanding and sense of accountability must be embraced by every civil servant, political leader, and stakeholder,” she said.
The Prime Minister also claimed that the current government has exercised fiscal prudence in public spending. “We have halted unnecessary recruitments that burden the state coffers and have cut budgets for programs included in the Red Book solely for misuse. We have taken strict measures against those seeking undeserved benefits or misusing state resources,” she said.
She further noted that the government is committed to providing citizen services such as citizenship, passports, and driving licenses in a simple, fast, and accessible manner.
PM Karki also stated that the preparation of a governance roadmap, which will guide future governments in promoting good governance, is in its final stages.
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