Kathmandu, September 30, 2025 – The interim government, already under scrutiny for its handling of governance and corruption, has drawn sharp criticism after abruptly halting the appointment of Dr. Sangeeta Kaushal Mishra as Minister of Health.
According to reports, Dr. Mishra had been recommended for the position following consultations that included not only the Prime Minister but also representatives of the GenZ movement. She had already tendered her resignation from her high-ranking bureaucratic post in the Ministry of Health, and her name had been formally forwarded to the President for endorsement.
However, in a last-minute move, the government placed her appointment on hold after receiving information that the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) was preparing to file a corruption case against her.
This sudden reversal has sparked anger, particularly among the Madhesi community, which views the decision as a case of public humiliation and discrimination. Many argue that the government’s last-hour withdrawal—after offering her the position and finalizing her name—was a “childish blunder” that not only embarrassed Dr. Mishra but also hurt community sentiments.
Critics say that the government should have verified her legal status before offering the appointment, instead of rescinding it after the fact. Observers point out that the Chief Secretary’s office failed in its due diligence, as over 48 hours had passed between the decision and the official recommendation—ample time to check with the CIAA regarding any ongoing investigation.
The case also highlights the larger systemic problem in Nepal, where numerous complaints are filed against officials under the banner of “patriotic citizens.” Most are dismissed outright, but some proceed to detailed investigation. Analysts suggest that only candidates under advanced stages of investigation should be disqualified, while mere complaints should not be grounds for exclusion.
The episode underscores the challenges the interim government faces in balancing governance, inclusivity, and credibility. For a government born out of the GenZ movement and public demands for clean governance, mishandling appointments in such a manner risks undermining its legitimacy.
- Source: Ukaalo News (Nepali) – Read original report hereM nhi
