Amidst the ongoing political crisis in Nepal, speculation regarding the interim Prime Prime Minister's post has intensified. While former Chief Justice Sushila Karki's name was previously being considered, Kulman Ghising, former Managing Director of the Nepal Electricity Authority and an engineer educated in India, is now considered a leading contender.
Nepal News: Preparations are underway for the formation of an interim government amidst violence and political instability in Nepal. According to information received from Kathmandu, Kulman Ghising is at the forefront of the race for the new Prime Minister. Ghising, who completed his engineering studies in Jamshedpur, India, served two terms as Managing Director at the Nepal Electricity Authority. Discussions about him being appointed as the interim PM are now gaining momentum, potentially marking a new turn in Nepal's politics.
Educated in India, Carved a Niche in Nepal's Energy Sector
Kulman Ghising was born on November 25, 1970, in the Ramechhap district of Nepal. He completed his electrical engineering studies in Jamshedpur, India, after which he returned to Nepal and became active in the energy sector. His career began at an ordinary level, but his working style and innovation quickly earned him recognition. The experience of studying in India reflected in his work, and this is why he set a new direction for energy reform in Nepal.
The educational experience gained in India provided him with an international perspective. Because of this, he emerged not only as a technical expert but also as a visionary manager. After returning to Nepal, he closely understood the challenges of the country's electricity system and took concrete steps towards improvement. His transparent working style and b decision-making ability earned him the trust of everyone from ordinary citizens to policymakers.
Became the “Electricity Man” by Ending Load Shedding, Brought Light to Rural Areas
Nepal had long struggled with a power crisis and hours of load shedding. Kulman Ghising was appointed the Managing Director of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) in 2016, after which he resolved to end this problem. He increased electricity generation and improved the distribution system while also cracking down on corruption. As a result, within a few years, Nepal overcame the problem of power outages.
Bringing electricity to rural and remote areas was a significant part of his work. Where people were once forced to live in darkness, now light reached every household. This initiative earned him the title of “Electricity Man” among the general public. For the first time, the public felt that any complex problem could be solved through administrative honesty and the right policies. This is why his popularity continued to grow.
Removed from Post After Confrontation with K.P. Oli Government
Kulman Ghising's career was not always smooth. On March 24, 2025, the government of then-Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli abruptly removed him from the post of NEA Managing Director. It is believed that he refused to waive electricity bills for some industrialists. This angered the government and the big business class, and ultimately the decision was made to remove him from his post.
However, this move did not prove detrimental to him. On the contrary, his popularity increased more than ever before. Youth and the general public considered it a courageous step that he refused to yield to pressure. His dismissal was seen as a symbol against the collusion between power and industrialists. This incident proves that leaders like Kulman Ghising win hearts not just because of their position, but because of their work and integrity.
Brought New Identity to Nepal by Exporting Electricity for the First Time
The connection of studying in India proved significant in Kulman Ghising's career. He not only received education from India but also forged a b partnership with India in the energy sector. Under his leadership, Nepal began exporting electricity to India for the first time in 2023-24. This achievement was considered historic for Nepal's economy and energy sector.
Electricity exports put Nepal on a new economic path. It was a major step towards advancing the country towards energy self-sufficiency and earning revenue. Kulman Ghising revitalized the hydropower sector, making it an example of regional cooperation. This initiative with India also increases the possibility of deeper cooperation in the energy sector between the two countries in the future.
