Notes

AI generated description
This policy paper examines the effectiveness of Nepal’s parliament and government under the current mixed electoral system adopted after the promulgation of the Constitution of Nepal (2015). It critically analyzes how the electoral system has influenced political stability, governance performance, inclusive representation, and the functioning of political parties.
The study provides a comparative analysis of the 2017 and 2022 general elections, focusing on electoral outcomes at the federal and provincial levels. It evaluates representation based on gender, caste, ethnicity, region, and political parties, as well as the legislative performance of parliament and provincial assemblies.
The report also explores challenges such as parliamentary obstruction, government instability, internal weaknesses in political parties, election-related costs, and lack of transparency in party financing. Drawing on secondary data, official election results, published literature, and expert consultations—including the author’s professional experience at the Election Commission of Nepal—the paper identifies structural and procedural shortcomings in the current system.
Finally, the study presents policy reform options, including:

Adoption of a fully proportional electoral system, or
Reform of the majority-based (direct election) model,
Right-sizing of parliament and executive bodies,
Direct election of the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers,
Strengthening internal democracy within political parties,
Improving financial transparency and electoral governance.

The paper aims to contribute to informed debate and evidence-based policymaking for strengthening Nepal’s democratic institutions and governance effectiveness.