Bold reforms, Limited Results

Within three months of coming to power, the Balendra Shah administration has crossed a major milestone. It was given a mandate by the people unlike any other, and it pledged to transform governance, eradicate corruption, and stimulate the economy. Their first 100 days exude vigor and the desire to achieve. Yet actual results are still scarce. The government's comprehensive 100-point reform agenda has been instrumental in garnering support for the sector. But, delivery has been hampered by legal barriers, unwillingness of officials, and lack of resources. The government has initiated reorganization of administration, digital governance, more thorough check of public officials' assets, civil service reforms and education changes. The number of ministries has been cut, introduction of performance benchmarking, wider access to digital public services and the strengthening of anti-corruption actions have been attempted. These initiatives are a sign of the government's readiness to move away from the usual style of governance, but the completion of the major projects still stands far down the road. After all, governments are judged by the people through the results they deliver. Employment has not picked up, investment remains sluggish and industries continue to struggle. Revenue collection is under pressure, while improvements in everyday public services are yet to match expectations. It is impossible for any government to completely reverse decades of institutional weakness in 100 days.

Historically, Nepal's bureaucratic system has shown strong resistance to reform, and the development projects have only been mired in legal disputes, procurement delays, and lack of coordination. That means, any government trying to make major structural changes would definitely encounter these issues. Still, the Balen government carries a heavier burden than its predecessors. It came to power promising to govern differently, arguing that political will and competent leadership could succeed where established parties had failed. That promise raised public expectations to an unusually high level. It also means this government will be judged by a higher standard. Meanwhile, some early achievements deserve credit. Publishing national examination results within the deadline, bringing more services under the Nagarik App, blocking illegal online betting sites and introducing ministry performance indicators, are some of the activities that indicate a stronger emphasis on efficiency. Also, the government looking at the assets of politicians and top officials has given a boost to the government's promise of accountability. The idea to eliminate politically affiliated unions in civil service and educational institutions is like making the public administration more of a profession. Besides, the business community is looking for a stable policy environment; However, the number of new jobs created is less than what people were hoping for.

Just doing administrative reforms is not enough to kickstart economic activities. So now, the government has to work on generating investment, industrial growth and entrepreneurship. Equally, control over corruption is also a matter. Starting investigations may be a politically strong statement, but time enduring credibility depends on equally following up on prosecutions and the outcomes in courts. If the big cases get stuck, the people's trust can quickly weaken. Meanwhile, it is really a good thing to protect public land and river corridors, but at the same time, uprooting people without proper rehabilitation plans can even generate new social issues. The government's honeymoon period is now drawing to a close and it still deserves the benefit of the doubt. Three months cannot erase decades of weak governance. Yet public patience will not last indefinitely. The next phase must shift from making promises and announcements to carrying out implementation. The public gave this government an extraordinary mandate because it believed change was possible. Reform has gained momentum. Now the Balen government must deliver results that citizens can see and feel.