Performance contract: A failed concept
Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has decided to have a performance contract with ministers by outlining annual objectives.
This contract has already been implemented between ministers and secretaries and department heads. Although a positive approach, the deal has faced several challenges in execution earlier. Basically, it is a failed concept.
A similar initiative introduced during the premiership of KP Oli could not yield anticipated outcomes due to governmental instability. The approach has become ineffective due to frequent replacement of ministers. Additionally, frequent transfer of secretaries, department heads and bureaucrats further impedes their ability to perform.
There is also a lack of coordination between cabinet ministers, ministries and bureaucrats, which also makes this approach difficult to execute.
For this concept to be effective, a stable government, a consistent cabinet, and steady bureaucratic operations are a must. Without these elements, whether this approach will be effective or not is a moot question.
The author is a former government secretary
