KATHMANDU, Sep 22: The prospects of Dr Sangeeta Kaushal Mishra being appointed as the new Minister of Health have diminished after it emerged that she is under investigation by the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) over alleged corruption.
Prime Minister Sushila Karki had initially recommended Dr Mishra — an Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Health and Population — for the ministerial post. However, sources say the Prime Minister Karki is now reconsidering the recommendation after being informed by the CIAA that Dr. Mishra is under scrutiny for her role in past procurement decisions.
Sources told Republica that Dr Mishra is accused of irregularities during her tenure at the Procurement Division of the Department of Health Services. “She is being investigated for her questionable role in the procurement of health materials while serving in the department,” one source said.
Reforming Anti-Corruption Legislations
This issue had reportedly led the previous government to transfer her to the Ministry as an Additional Secretary — a position that carries fewer responsibilities.
Although the CIAA has not yet filed formal charges, sources said an investigation is currently underway.
Prime Minister Karki had also sent the names of Mahabir Pun (Minister of Education, Science, and Technology), Anil Kumar Sinha (Minister of Industry and Land Reform), Jagdish Kharel (Minister of Communications and Information Technology) and Dr. Madan Pariyar (Minister of Agriculture) to the President’s Office for their appointment.
The President’s Office has scheduled the oath-taking ceremony for 3 PM today.
Dr. Mishra tendered her resignation from her post as Additional Secretary on Sunday after being offered the ministerial position. The resignation has not been accepted yet.
