KATHMANDU:- Prime Minister Sushila Karki has said that the damage caused to the industry and business sector by some unruly groups, taking advantage of the statelessness in the backdrop of the Gen Z movement, is unacceptable to the government.
Addressing the ‘National Economic Debate 2.0’ organised by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) here today, she assured that the government would make every effort to immediately provide relief to the private sector affected by the loss and damage, and to nurture their confidence.
Stating that the government is committed to establishing the rule of law, Prime Minister Karki said it is fully engaged in providing security assurances to the private sector.
“Bribery, party-wise levies and the network of commission are intolerable; we cannot accept plunder in the name of democracy; those who harass honest entrepreneurs and manipulate policies should not be allowed to flourish,” she said, clarifying the message of the Gen Z movement.
Noting that good governance is the prerequisite of social justice and economic growth for any nation, PM Karki stated the government was aware of the plunder of state assets in political cover, the suspicions forced on the private sector and the extractive problematic system.
“The troubles of business community are our own troubles, they are our concerns. Industrialists and businessmen do not only pay taxes to the state, they also bear a significant responsibility of the state through ensuring employment and social security,” she said, adding that the country cannot prosper without the industries and businesses and the economy does not rise until the morale of industrialists is boosted, therefore, the government is constantly collaborating in addressing the demands of the private sector.
The Prime Minister stated that strict measures have been taken through Nepal Rastra Bank for the stability of the banking and financial sector while policy complications are being removed to improve the business environment. PM Karki said that the entire country is preparing for the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 5, 2026, and expressed confidence that through the election the country will progress in a sustainable democratic process.
“We are trying to create a suitable environment, raising hopes that it is possible right here,” she said. Finance Minister Rameshore Khanal emphasized that the current government has been diligently working since its inception to restore the private sector to its pre-Gen-Z movement condition. ‘The government has consistently engaged in discussions with the private sector,’ he remarked, ‘and is dedicated to fostering a private sector-friendly environment.’ He also provided insights into the decentralization of tax administration services, affirming the government’s commitment to building trust within the business community. ‘We are prepared to offer services without causing any disruptions to the business community,’ he added.
Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal remarked that the current government serves as a protector of the general people, addressing the private sector’s concerns. ‘The nation is advancing as a state governed by the rule of law, and the government operates under this principle,’ he stated. ‘It is essential to fortify the economy’s foundation and secure its components, which is precisely what the government is undertaking.’ He underscored that the responsibility for safeguarding the economy rests with the private sector, asserting that collaboration between the government and the private sector is vital for the nation’s prosperity.
‘The Gen-Z movement was compromised, and criminal elements inflicted harm, but the state has responded effectively,’ he noted. ‘A total of 380 individuals have been apprehended, legal actions have been initiated against 150 people, and the government ensures complete security for industrialists and entrepreneurs.’
Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies Anil Kumar Sinha announced that the government is prioritizing amendments to legal provisions that obstruct the development of an industrial environment. He informed that the Ministry is working to support industrialists, emphasizing that issues crucial for maintaining an active economy will be prioritized.
Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal highlighted the importance of generating domestic employment to reduce the need for citizens to seek work abroad. Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank, Dr Bishwanath Poudel, called on the private sector to engage in business activities with confidence and high morale.
During the event, private sector representatives urged the government to address concerns such as fostering an environment where industrialists and businesspeople can operate with confidence, enacting business-friendly laws and regulations, and streamlining service delivery. RSS