Eight Years of Federalism in Nepal: Mixed Results and Challenges

Nepal's Constitution-2072 institutionalized the federal democratic republic, setting a historic goal of bringing governance closer to citizens through the restructuring of state power. The core spirit of federalism was to establish inclusive development, balanced resource distribution, respect for identity, and accountable governance by dividing powers concentrated in Singha Durbar among the provinces and local levels.

In line with this objective, governments were formed in all seven provinces after the 2074 elections, and Nepal's federal governance system entered practical implementation. Looking back at the journey of federalism after eight years presents a mixed picture. On one hand, provincial governments have built an institutional foundation for federal governance by developing their own parliaments, governments, law-making processes, provincial public service commissions, policy and planning commissions, and administrative structures. On the other hand, frequent changes in government, reshuffling of chief ministers, expansion of cabinets, political interference from the center, disputes over provincial governors, incomplete legal and administrative structures, and financial dependency have raised serious questions about the effectiveness of provincial governance.