Minister for Physical Planning and Works Hridayesh Tripathi said the government is planning to appoint a chief-secretary without taking into consideration the candidates’ seniority. There is a clear difference between the Maoists and the Madhesis regarding as to who gets the job among the eight probable candidates in line.

While Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai wants Lilamani Poudel, who is eighth in line, to take the top position, the Madhesi parties argue that Umakant Jha be given to job on the basis of seniority. Similarly, women’s rights activists are lobbying for Brinda Hada’s nomination which would make her the first woman to hold the post.With the two ruling factions divided over nominations, the cabinet meeting has already failed twice to take decision.

The incumbent chief-secretary Madhav Ghimire will retire in seven days.