Kulman Ghising orders removal of NEA minister’s chamber — Day 2 wrap
Ghising orders removal of minister’s chamber at NEA headquarters
BCANP News Desk
—
—
Kathmandu, Nepal
Energy Minister Kulman Ghising has directed that the minister’s office chamber located inside the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) headquarters in Ratnapark be removed immediately. He declared that the facility, established by his predecessor, will no longer be used for ministerial functions but preserved only for the Authority’s official operations. This move underscores his effort to separate ministerial duties from institutional space. (Kathmandu Post; MyRepublica)
Timeline (Sept 16, 2025)
- Instruction issued: Ghising sent a directive via the Energy Ministry for NEA to dismantle the minister’s unit inside NEA headquarters. (MyRepublica)
- Historical note: The chamber was built in December 2024 under former Energy Minister Deepak Khadka. (Kathmandu Post)
- Rationale: Ghising said it is important that ministerial space not overlap with institutional operations to avoid conflict of interest and undue influence. (Local NEA employees expressed support.)
Decisions & Quotes
- On institutional integrity: Ghising emphasised that “space for ministerial fancy” previously infringed on operational separations; this step is meant to restore clarity in roles. (Reported in MyRepublica)
- On precedent: The office chamber was constructed overnight while Ghising was out of Kathmandu; staff had raised concerns. (MyRepublica)
Why it matters
This move reflects Ghising’s ongoing effort to signal transparency and reduce political interference in state institutions. By removing ministerial chambers from institutional premises, he aims to limit patronage and privilege. It may also set a precedent for how ministerial offices function in future.
Background
Kulman Ghising assumed multiple portfolios—Energy, Water Resources & Irrigation, Physical Infrastructure & Urban Development—on Sept 15, 2025. One of his first acts was ordering recovery of unpaid dues from industries using dedicated/trunk lines. (Kathmandu Post; The Himalayan Times)
The minister’s chamber that he ordered removed was set up in December 2024 by Deepak Khadka. NEA employees reportedly opposed its creation at the time. (MyRepublica)
What’s next
- The physical removal of the chamber and any associated staff or resources.
- An audit of institutional premises to identify and eliminate other ministerial offices situated within state bodies.
- Following up with policy changes to ensure separation between ministerial duties and institutional operations.
