Ishwari Subedi

Many who have occupied the finance minister’s chair have found themselves surrounded by controversy — facing allegations ranging from financial misconduct and budget leaks to policy decisions allegedly influenced by powerful business interests.

From shrinking ministries to expanding digital services, the Balen government has moved quickly on its reform agenda in its first three months. But as expectations rise, the government faces a bigger challenge: transforming policy decisions into changes citizens can actually feel.

In Nepal, the practice of introducing ordinances bypassing Parliament has been increasingly observed.

Opposition allegations of bias against Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal, along with disputes over expunging PM Balendra Shah’s controversial remarks, have deepened tensions and widened the ruling–opposition divide in Parliament.

Those required to submit asset details are now struggling to trace the sources of their wealth, with many admitting that reconstructing financial histories has become a difficult task.

While the rulebook introduces measures to improve discipline and efficiency, it has also triggered criticism for provisions that critics say protect lawmakers facing corruption and criminal charges.

With the amendment proposal having already received theoretical approval from the House and the registration process completed, the committee’s provision appears to require revision.

Due to the prolonged vacancies, several bodies have been operating under acting leadership, affecting their overall functioning and decision-making capacity.

Continuous slogan chanting, surrounding of the well, and repeated adjournments have once again revived a familiar question: is parliamentary obstruction a legitimate weapon of the opposition, or has it evolved into a distorted parliamentary culture?

After the Appropriation Bill for Fiscal Year 2025/26 was passed on Tuesday, the government is preparing to endorse dependent bills on Saturday. However, apart from budget-related legislation, the government seems unwilling to table other bills during the disruption, a source said.