Federal Civil Service Bill Grapples with 150+ Proposed Amendments as Deadline Looms

The Parliament Secretariat has reported a flurry of activity as lawmakers rush to register amendment proposals for Bill 2080, which aims to establish regulations governing the formation, operation, and conditions of service for the Federal Civil Service. With the deadline for amendments expiring on Sunday, it has been disclosed that a total of 150 proposals have been submitted by 5 PM.

The bill, which was discussed in the House of Representatives last Wednesday and subsequently approved, triggered a wave of proposed amendments from lawmakers. The Parliament Secretariat has yet to compile a comprehensive overview of these proposed amendments due to their sheer volume.

Key provisions within the bill have sparked considerable debate among lawmakers. Notably, the designation of the chief secretary of provincial governments as a federal civil service post, along with the classification of provincial ministry secretaries as 12th level civil service positions, has drawn attention. Additionally, a provision stipulating the appointment of chief administrative officers for local governments by the federal level for a decade post-law promulgation has prompted numerous proposed amendments.

Among the proposed changes, several lawmakers have advocated for maintaining the current age limits for entry into civil service, particularly for women, who currently face a cutoff age of 40 compared to 35 for men. Amendments addressing issues such as inter-service sector examinations, promotion criteria, and performance evaluation mechanisms have also been put forward.

During the theoretical discussions on the bill, parliamentarians emphasized the need to delink trade unions from political influence to foster a more result-oriented administrative framework. Suggestions were made to regularize and standardize employee transfers and promotions based on performance evaluations, while curbing discretionary practices in personnel management. Additionally, prioritizing skill development initiatives and establishing a system of rewards and punishments garnered significant attention.

However, despite the theoretical discourse advocating for comprehensive reforms, the majority of amendment proposals filed by MPs primarily address concerns raised by civil servants. Pressure from local and provincial employees, who feel marginalized by the bill, has led to intensified lobbying efforts at the central level to secure amendments safeguarding their rights.

As the deadline for amendments passes, all eyes are now on the subsequent deliberations and decisions within the legislative process, as stakeholders await the outcome of this crucial legislative endeavor shaping the future of the Federal Civil Service in Nepal.