Delivering on his promise of structural reform and a “Clean Nepal,” Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s government is preparing to systematically cancel all political appointments made by previous administrations. In a decisive early move, the government has ordered the immediate recall of politically appointed ambassadors from six crucial nations: India, Australia, Sri Lanka, Denmark, South Korea, and South Africa.
These high-profile diplomats, who were installed through political patronage under former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s government, have been issued a strict one-month deadline to wrap up their duties and return to Kathmandu. This sweeping overhaul is a clear signal of PM Balen’s intent to eradicate nepotism and pivot towards merit-based, professional appointments within Nepal’s foreign service and domestic institutions.
While critics have raised concerns that the sudden recalls might create temporary leadership vacuums in key embassies, supporters argue that it is a necessary disruption. Following high-profile anti-corruption drives, clearing out entrenched political appointees marks another bold step in reshaping the country’s governance. New, meritocratic appointments are expected to be announced shortly as Kathmandu redefines its international diplomatic strategy.