15th September 2025, Kathmandu
In a powerful statement of integrity and humility, Dr. Rameshore Khanal, the newly appointed Finance Minister in the Sushila Karki-led government, has declared that he will not accept any ministerial perks or privileges beyond his official salary.
Finance Minister Rameshore Khanal
This unprecedented move is a direct challenge to the culture of entitlement that has long plagued Nepal’s political landscape.
Sources from Baluwatar confirm that the former Finance Secretary made his conditions clear before taking the oath of office. He explicitly stated that he would not use a personal security officer (PSO) or an official vehicle. Furthermore, in a nod to his commitment to public service and simplicity, he requested that the honorific title “Honorable” not be used before his name.
“He has placed conditions: no perks beyond salary, no PSO, no luxury vehicle, and no use of the title ‘Honorable.’ We see no objection to his principled stance,” a source from the Prime Minister’s residence told reporters.
A Reputation Built on Frugality
Dr. Khanal’s decision is consistent with his long-standing reputation as a principled economist and a strong advocate for frugal government spending. During his tenure as an economic advisor to former Prime Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, he similarly refused state facilities, setting a precedent for his current actions.
His appointment comes at a critical time for Nepal’s economy, which faces significant challenges. Dr. Khanal recently chaired a high-level government committee that submitted a report recommending deep-seated cost-cutting measures and administrative reforms. By rejecting the traditional trappings of power, he is not only leading by example but also building public trust—a crucial step for a government tasked with economic reform and fiscal discipline.
The Message to the Nation
Khanal’s decision sends a clear and resounding message to the public and political class alike. It symbolizes a new commitment to ethical governance and accountability, resonating deeply with a populace that has been disillusioned by years of corruption and extravagance.
As he prepares to lead the Ministry of Finance, his actions suggest that his focus will remain on the nation’s economic health, not personal gain. This principled start is a source of hope for many, who see it as a sign that the new interim government, led by Prime Minister Sushila Karki, is genuinely committed to reform and putting the people’s interests first.
For more: Finance Minister Rameshore Khanal