It has been recently revealed that about 20 billion rupees went to civil servants approving projects all across government agencies in the last fiscal year. This in itself is a disturbing fact. Our public institutions have become haven for corrupt individuals to enrich themselves at the expense of greater public good. Our infrastructures and other mega projects are delayed and the cost has skyrocketed.

Endemic corruption and collusion of politicians, businesses and bureaucrats have crippled every single public institution. And those who dare to fight against such a practice often become the target of state machines. After years of struggle, we finally conducted local, provincial and federal elections. People are eager to move forward and want clean, transparent and honest administration at all levels of our system.

Unfortunately, the newly-elected representatives have not changed their behavior. Initial reports from across the country suggest the new representatives are busy using the state money to add on to their already generous perks. Some Rural Municipalities are spending as much as Rs 150,000 per month for municipality chairperson to hire luxury vehicles where they do not even have proper roads. The essence of corrupt mindset hasn’t changed across our public institutions. 

People are dying of viral diseases in the far west Nepal. The government is unable to provide basic drugs on time. People in the southern plains are dying of cold. They also helplessly wait for some support from the state. Similar is the story of the earthquake survivors. They are still under makeshift tents even three years after the 2015 tragedy. The messy state of affairs is visible everywhere from our dusty broken roads to horrible state of infrastructures. Promises are made during the heat of the election campaigns. People buy into their promises and vote. However, those promises are soon forgotten. People go on to their lives, frustrated at the poor delivery by the elected ones. But how long can we go this way? When will this come to an end? 

Kathmandu’s mayor has monumental task of managing the city with ever increasing population pressures. His infamous 101 things to be completed in the first 100 days look like a joke right now. Mayor Bidya Sundar Shakya is nowhere to be seen. He is immune to public pressure. Kathmandu’s public infrastructure is only getting worse. Air pollution, dusty roads, tangled wires and crowded public spaces only add to the city’s worsening problems.

We have no idea when and how these issues will be resolved. While it is unreasonable to expect overnight miracle from our elected representatives, there has to be a start, somewhere, by someone. Right now that hope is nowhere to be seen. Corruption is destroying every fabric of our society. Therefore, we urge the newly-elected leaders to use their position to do good, and serve in the best interest of the people. The next five years will be crucial in terms of setting the direction of the country. Everyone will be watching. Business as usual won’t be tolerated by the people. It’s time to deliver.