CM Kandel Directs Officials Not to Delay Development Work Citing Elections

Surkhet: Karnali Province Chief Minister Yamlal Kandel has instructed officials not to delay development activities by citing the upcoming election scheduled for March 5.

During the semi-annual review program of ministries under the Karnali Province Government, Chief Minister Kandel stated that the election code of conduct does not prevent regular work, and therefore, development projects and service delivery should not be halted under the pretext of elections.

"Development work should not stop by showing the election," he said. "Obstruction in development must not occur using the election as an excuse." He expressed dissatisfaction, noting that despite the creation of work schedules within the ministries, they have not been implemented effectively.

He directed office heads to work in a way that demonstrates their qualifications, capacity, and diligence through visible results. Stating that delays in development and service delivery are unacceptable, he emphasized that excellence must be shown through work that meets public expectations. 

He clarified that while the election code of conduct might stop brand-new projects, it does not hinder the implementation of plans and programs already included and approved in the regular annual policy and program.

Chief Minister Kandel mentioned that failure to complete approved projects on time weakens public trust in the government. Directing officials not to compromise on quality, deadlines, and transparency in development projects, he stressed the need to make coordination and monitoring more effective.

In the program, Minister for Economic Affairs and Planning Rajiv Bikram Shah stated that problems identified in budget implementation must be resolved. He mentioned that coordination between ministries and subordinate offices is essential to achieve expenditure targets and progress as planned.

Minister for Water Resources and Energy Development Bijaya Budha noted that the energy and water resources sectors are the foundation of Karnali's overall development and stated that the ministry is committed to the effective implementation of plans.

The program was attended by Chief Secretary Birendra Kumar Yadav, the Finance Secretary, the Energy Secretary, and office heads from ten districts under the ministry. During the program, the progress of the second quarter of the current fiscal year was reviewed, and future action plans were discussed.