Nepal is currently without ambassadors in 17 countries, as delays in new appointments continue months after a series of recalls by successive governments.
The vacancies began after the previous government led by Susheela Karki recalled 11 ambassadors in late October. More recently, the government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah withdrew an additional six envoys in March, expanding the number of empty diplomatic posts.
Despite guidelines requiring the appointment process to begin at least three months before a position becomes vacant, no formal steps have been initiated even after six months. Officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs say there has been no official process started so far, although internal discussions may be underway at the political level.
Several ambassadors are still in the process of returning to Nepal following their recall, while more vacancies are expected in the coming months. By early autumn, the terms of at least seven more ambassadors are set to expire, potentially leaving up to 24 missions without official envoys.
In the absence of ambassadors, embassies are being run by chargés d’affaires, a temporary arrangement that officials say is less effective in handling diplomatic responsibilities. There are also concerns that prolonged vacancies may send the wrong signal to host countries and affect Nepal’s international engagement.
Under existing provisions, ambassadorial appointments are to be divided equally between career foreign service officials and political nominees. However, with all politically appointed ambassadors already recalled, the selection process remains stalled.
While ruling party leaders have begun internal discussions on potential nominees, there is still no clear timeline for appointments. The delay has raised concerns within diplomatic circles about coordination, continuity, and the overall effectiveness of Nepal’s foreign missions.