KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba have reached an agreement to appoint economist Biswo Poudel as the new Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the country’s central bank.
The deal between the two top political leaders ends weeks of uncertainty over the leadership vacuum at the NRB following the end of former Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari’s term on April 5.
According to sources close to both parties, the appointment of Biswo Poudel—who was initially recommended by the Nepali Congress—had been stalled due to disagreements from PM Oli. However, after a series of behind-the-scenes negotiations and growing political pressure to fill the crucial post, both sides have finally agreed to move forward with Poudel’s name.
Nepal Rastra Bank has been without a governor for over a month, and the delay in appointment had raised concerns over policy paralysis in the central banking system amid economic uncertainty. Bishwo Poudel, a senior economist with prior experience in public finance and policy-making, is seen as a politically agreeable and technically competent choice.
An official announcement is expected soon after the Cabinet decision.
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