KATHMANDU: Krishna Prasad Sitaula, a senior leader of the Nepali Congress, has claimed that state institutions in Nepal have lost their independence, alleging that the country is no longer being governed in accordance with the Constitution.
Sitaula said key state institutions—including the civil administration, judiciary, police, and constitutional bodies—had compromised their autonomy.
He said the current state of governance has made it difficult to determine who is actually in control of the country.
Sitaula also expressed concern over what he described as the growing culture of political retaliation in Nepal, warning that such a trend would undermine both the nation and society.
He argued that global political developments have also influenced Nepal, with the country experiencing more negative than positive effects. He added that mistrust within political parties and among rival parties has continued to deepen, leaving little room for collective dialogue on national issues.
Calling the Constitution a living document rather than a religious scripture, Sitaula stressed that constitutional amendments are a natural part of constitutional development. However, he said any amendments should preserve the Constitution’s fundamental principles while addressing shortcomings identified during its implementation.
He further said Nepal now faces a critical choice between maintaining a narrowly structured state system or expanding it to ensure broader public access and participation. According to Sitaula, the country should move forward by preserving the strengths of federalism while correcting its weaknesses.
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