Kathmandu — Kathmandu Metropolitan City is set to convene its long-delayed executive meeting on Friday, following a six-month gap. According to Mayor Balen Shah’s secretariat, the meeting has been scheduled for 2 PM under his leadership.
The executive body had not met since last Poush (mid-December), after a dispute concerning the building permit for the Kathmandu Tower. During this period, Mayor Shah had refrained from calling any executive meetings.
The prolonged suspension has drawn criticism for causing delays in key decisions related to municipal policy and budget implementation.
As preparations for the meeting continue, sources have revealed that Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Saroj Guragain has been placed on leave for the day. “As per the mayor’s preference not to include the executive officer in the meeting, the CAO has been asked to take leave,” the source claimed.
Nepal’s Local Government Operation Act mandates that an executive meeting be held at least once a month. The Act also designates the mayor as the authority responsible for convening and chairing such meetings. However, this process had been on hold for the past six months.
The executive body of Kathmandu Metropolitan City plays a critical role in policymaking and budget approvals. The decision to place the top administrative official on leave during the meeting is expected to prompt further discussion on internal governance practices.
