Nepal's New Ministerial Lineup: A Fresh Start Amid Controversy

Nepal has sworn in four newly-appointed ministers at a ceremony on Monday, demonstrating a pivotal political shift. The event took place at Sheetal Niwas, officiated by President Ramchandra Paudel.

The appointees include former Justice Anil Kumar Sinha, National Innovation Centre founder Mahabir Pun, journalist Jagdish Kharel, and expert Madan Pariyar. The move bolsters the cabinet led by Prime Minister Sushila Karki, raising its strength to eight members. Karki has retained key portfolios, affirming her authoritative grip on the cabinet.

While the induction was initially set for five new ministers, Sangita Kaushal Mishra was withdrawn amid her involvement in a corruption case being investigated by the Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA). The reshuffle follows Karki's appointment as Prime Minister, which marked an end to politic uncertainty after K P Sharma Oli's ouster.