Kathmandu, 9 May: The government has dismissed 15 honorary (unpaid) Nepali consuls stationed abroad. Government spokesperson Sasmit Pokharel informed that the decision was made during a Cabinet meeting held on Friday at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar.
Spokesperson Pokharel, who also serves as the Minister for Education, Science and Technology, said the Cabinet has decided to request the President to address a joint session of both houses of the Federal Parliament on Monday, Baisakh 28, at 4:00 PM. The government has also decided to call upon members of the Federal Parliament to be present at the session.
The Cabinet has decided to present to Parliament for approval the International Labour Organization (ILO) Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (Protocol of 2014, No. 29). Similarly, approval has also been granted to table the ILO Labour Inspection Convention, 1947 (No. 81) in Parliament.
Dialogue on border dispute
Minister Pokharel stated that dialogue will take place with India regarding the border dispute seen in Lipulekh. He expressed confidence that a solution will be reached through bilateral talks, noting that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already sent a diplomatic note to India. He also clarified that the government is moving forward with restructuring ministries to reduce their number to 18 by merging related ones.
Chief Justice recommended based on performance
Minister Pokharel claimed that Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma has been recommended for the position of Chief Justice based on case performance. He said that the recommendation was made through existing procedures, but improvements in legal and constitutional frameworks are necessary over time.
He added that concerns about judicial independence have long been raised, emphasizing that the judiciary, executive, and legislature should remain separate. He also pointed out that out of five members in the Judicial Council, three appear to be politically appointed, which may influence recommendations. However, he maintained that a qualified individual has been recommended.
Vice-Chancellors through open competition
Minister Pokharel announced that university Vice-Chancellors will now be appointed through open competition. Applications have already been called from Friday. Although a committee has been formed under his leadership, an expert search committee will handle the selection process.
He stressed that universities should be kept free from political influence, and candidates shortlisted through open competition will be recommended by the Chancellor for appointment.
Regulation by local governments
Minister Pokharel also stated that school fees, including admission charges, are clearly defined in education regulations. If any school collects fees unlawfully, local governments are responsible for monitoring and taking action.
