Nepal, a young federal democratic republic proclaimed in 2008 after centuries of monarchical rule, is going through a protracted crisis of formation. More than a decade and a half after the historic transition to democracy, the country's political system remains in a state of permanent turbulence. Instead of becoming the basis for stable development, state institutions have found themselves at the center of a deep crisis of confidence, the most striking manifestation of which has become chronic political instability.
Politics in Kathmandu is a kaleidoscope, with the same people and parties constantly replacing each other in power, offering neither a long-term strategy nor a coherent policy to the public. Nepal’s Westminster model of parliamentary democracy has effectively become hostage to behind-the-scenes power-sharing deals that determine the stability (or rather instability) of governments far more than election results or the will of the people.
Recent years have provided a graphic illustration of this chaos. In March 2024, then Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, known as “Prachanda,” replaced his main coalition partner. However, in July of that year, another reshuffle took place, resulting in Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli returning to the post of head of government. This “revolving door policy” has become the norm, leading to a situation where the country changes on average two prime ministers a year, completely eliminating the possibility of any continuity in governance.
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By Alpha Business MediaNepal, a young federal democratic republic proclaimed in 2008 after centuries of monarchical rule, is going through a protracted crisis of formation. More than a decade and a half after the historic transition to democracy, the country's political system remains in a state of permanent turbulence. Instead of becoming the basis for stable development, state institutions have found themselves at the center of a deep crisis of confidence, the most striking manifestation of which has become chronic political instability.
Politics in Kathmandu is a kaleidoscope, with the same people and parties constantly replacing each other in power, offering neither a long-term strategy nor a coherent policy to the public. Nepal’s Westminster model of parliamentary democracy has effectively become hostage to behind-the-scenes power-sharing deals that determine the stability (or rather instability) of governments far more than election results or the will of the people.
Recent years have provided a graphic illustration of this chaos. In March 2024, then Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, known as “Prachanda,” replaced his main coalition partner. However, in July of that year, another reshuffle took place, resulting in Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli returning to the post of head of government. This “revolving door policy” has become the norm, leading to a situation where the country changes on average two prime ministers a year, completely eliminating the possibility of any continuity in governance.