Nepal PM Karki Appoints 3 Advisors, Affirms Election Commitment Amid Dashain Greetings; President Urges Unity, Restraint

KalimNews | Kathmandu | September 29, 2025 : Prime Minister Sushila Karki has announced the appointment of three key advisors to her personal secretariat, while also reaffirming her government’s commitment to timely elections and good governance. 

In a series of official statements released on the occasion of Bada Dashain, both the Prime Minister and the President of Nepal extended heartfelt greetings to the nation, emphasizing peace, resilience, and democratic continuity during a time of cultural and political significance.

In the latest move to strengthen her administrative team, Prime Minister Karki has named Ajay Bhadra Khanal, a seasoned journalist and former editor of The Himalayan Times, as her Chief Advisor. Known for his editorial insight and critical perspectives on national affairs, Khanal’s inclusion is being viewed as a strategic decision to enhance policy communication and advisory support within the Prime Minister’s Office.

Adarsh Kumar Shrestha has been appointed as Advisor and Chief Personal Secretary to the Prime Minister. Shrestha, who holds a Master’s degree in Sociology, brings significant experience from the judiciary, having served as a personal assistant to former Chief Justices of the Supreme Court. His background in both administrative and sociological domains is expected to contribute to informed governance and internal coordination.

Completing the trio of appointments, Govinda Narayan Timilsina, Chairperson of the Thapa Foundation—an organization established in memory of Bibeksheel Nepal Party founder Ujwal Thapa—has been named Public Relations Advisor. Timilsina’s role will center on strengthening the government's public outreach and managing its communication strategies.

Amidst these political appointments, Prime Minister Karki delivered a festive message on the occasion of Dashain 2082, highlighting her administration’s determination to hold the upcoming House of Representatives election as scheduled. She reaffirmed that her government, born out of the momentum of the Gen-Z Protest, remains deeply committed to its democratic mandate, the timely execution of elections, and the implementation of good governance practices at all levels.

In her address, the Prime Minister conveyed warm wishes to all Nepali citizens, both at home and abroad, wishing peace, happiness, and prosperity during Dashain. However, the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers confirmed that the Prime Minister will neither receive nor offer Dashain Tika to the public this year, marking a departure from customary practice.

President Ram Chandra Paudel also issued a nationwide Dashain message, urging all Nepalis to exercise restraint, unity, and full support toward ensuring the continuation of the people’s representative system and democratic governance through scheduled elections.

In his message, President Paudel emphasized the need for collective effort to manage the country’s ongoing extraordinary challenges—including human casualties and damage to property—highlighting the importance of resilience and national solidarity. He called on the people to uphold democratic values, support institutional stability, and work together for long-term peace and prosperity.

Describing Dashain as a festival of strength, devotion, and faith, the President reflected on its spiritual and cultural dimensions. He explained that the festival includes nine days of worship dedicated to Nawa Durga Bhawani, culminating in Bijaya Dashami, when citizens receive Tika, Jamara, and blessings from elders—symbolic of Durga Bhawani’s prasad and a celebration of the triumph of good over evil.

“There is a religious and historical belief that on Bijaya Dashami, Goddess Durga defeated evil forces, and Lord Ram vanquished Rawan,” the President noted, emphasizing the festival’s timeless message of truth prevailing over falsehood. He described Dashain as an occasion for family reunions, social harmony, and goodwill, reinforcing the values of unity, forgiveness, and cultural continuity.

President Paudel expressed hope that the spirit of Dashain would inspire all Nepalis to pursue economic development grounded in justice and equality, and foster a deeper sense of brotherhood and social cohesion. He highlighted the importance of mutual respect, particularly the tradition of offering devotion to elders and dignitaries, which, he said, enriches the festival’s cultural fabric.

Concluding his message, the President prayed for Nepal’s political recovery, and wished for enduring peace, stability, good governance, and prosperity for the nation and its people. He emphasized that Dashain not only strengthens familial and social bonds but also serves as a powerful symbol of Nepal’s cultural unity, despite the nation’s vast geographic, linguistic, and ethnic diversity.

As the country observes Dashain—a time of both spiritual reflection and national pride—Nepal’s top leaders have delivered a clear message: to uphold democratic processes, maintain social harmony, and move forward together with hope and determination.