Kathmandu, February 27, 2025 – As Health Service Day is being celebrated, all eyes are on whether the Ministry of Health and Population will finally appoint a new health secretary. The position has been vacant since Dr. Roshan Pokharel’s retirement on Sunday, and the government is expected to make a decision in today’s Cabinet meeting.

The promotion committee, chaired by Public Service Commission Chairman Madhav Sharma, has recommended three candidates: Dr. Sangita Mishra, Dr. Bikash Devkota, and Dr. Tanka Barakoti. However, political influences may play a key role in the final selection. Dr. Mishra and Dr. Devkota are seen as close to the Nepali Congress, while Dr. Barakoti is linked to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

Sources indicate that leaders within the Nepali Congress are divided, with some supporting Dr. Mishra and some backing Dr. Devkota. Meanwhile, Health Minister Pradeep Paudel is reportedly in favor of Mr. Devkota due to his experience in the health sector, whereas Prime Minister Oli’s preference for Dr. Barakoti could shift the outcome.

As the time for decision approaches, the question remains—will the Ministry finally get its health secretary on Health Service Day, or will political considerations delay the appointment further?