National
Orientation for local level chiefs and deputies
The Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development started a three-day orientation on Thursday for the chiefs and deputy chiefs of the local federal units, informing them about federalism and local governance, local fiscal management, planning and implementation.Anup Ojha
The Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development started a three-day orientation on Thursday for the chiefs and deputy chiefs of the local federal units, informing them about federalism and local governance, local fiscal management, planning and implementation.
A total of 235 representatives from two metropolitan cities, one sub-metropolitan city, 41 municipalities and 73 village councils are taking part in the “intensive” orientation being held in Dhulikhel.
The representatives will learn about the working procedure in the new set-up so that they can run the local governments effectively. Addressing the inaugural session, Secretary at the ministry Dinesh Thapaliya said the aim of the programme is to make the new representatives more accountable, their works transparent and people-centric so that they engage in development works mobilising available resources and making effective plans.
The ministry has selected 45 experts including planners, professors of anthropology and sociology, retired secretaries, engineers, experts from health, education, information technology and communication, and governance.
Inaugurating the programme, Deputy Prime Minister and Local Development Minister Bijaya Kumar Gachhadar requested the representatives to utilise the authority enshrined in the constitution to make the people feel that Singha Durbar, the government’s secretariat, has come to their door.
The constitution has an exclusive list of 22 powers to be exercised by the local councils while they share 15 with the authorities at the Centre and the province. The local units enjoy executive, judicial and legislature rights.
“The elected chiefs are like the prime minister of the country. I request every one of you to use your power wisely,” said Gachhadar, adding that the constitution grants equal rights to the people belonging to different religions, castes, gender and marginalised communities across the country.
Auditor General Tanka Mani Sharma (Dangal) requested all the representatives to work on the basis of careful plans. “It may take two to three months to make a good plan. I request you start from zero and go according to your new plan. This will lead you towards better results,” said Sharma.
Chief Secretary Somlal Subedi requested all the representatives to be cautious while collecting revenues.
He also asked the representatives to work for sustainable economic growth with transparency.
Officials said the orientation programmes for the newly elected representatives of provinces 4 and 6 would be held next week in Pokhara and Jumla, respectively.