In a significant move to ensure better productivity in government offices, the Nepali government has banned the use of the share trading system (TMS) during office hours.
Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli announced the decision on Tuesday, citing concerns about the negative impact of stock trading on government duties. The decision comes as a response to rising complaints about civil servants engaging in private stock market activities while on the job.
Prime Minister’s Call for Focus on Public Service
The directive from Prime Minister Oli emphasized that government employees must concentrate solely on their official responsibilities while at work. Speaking on the issue, he clarified the importance of maintaining professionalism in the workplace.
“It is invalid to do private business in the stock market while in a government office,” Oli remarked in a Facebook post. His message was clear: civil servants should refrain from engaging in personal financial activities during office hours.
The government received multiple complaints that such activities were distracting employees from their official duties and adversely affecting the quality of services provided to the public.
Complaints and the Decision to Ban TMS
The prime minister’s decision came after his office was bombarded with complaints from various sources, expressing dissatisfaction with the work ethic in government offices. Many service recipients raised concerns that civil servants were focusing more on their personal stock portfolios than their public duties.
Oli acknowledged the issue, stating that this trend has disrupted the functioning of the offices and reduced the efficiency of government services.
“There are complaints that it has adverse effects on government work and has affected the work of service recipients,” Oli shared. This pressing issue led to the nationwide ban of TMS across all government offices, from ministries to local-level offices.
Steps Taken to Ensure Compliance
In addition to banning the use of the share trading system during work hours, the Nepali government is taking active steps to ensure the new rule is enforced. A technical team is being formed to monitor whether TMS is being operated in government offices. This team will be responsible for inspecting offices and ensuring that the policy is strictly adhered to across the country.
“Instructions have been given to not operate TMS in all ministries, commissions, secretariats, and local level offices. I request you to do only government work in the office now,” the Prime Minister urged, reinforcing the government’s commitment to public service over personal business.
This decision marks a crucial step in improving government office productivity and ensuring that civil servants dedicate their time and resources to serving the public. The government hopes that this move will set a new standard of professionalism and accountability among its employees, ultimately benefiting the people of Nepal.
