Finance Minister Emphasizes Strengthening Role of Economic Journalists in Nepal's Media Landscape

Minister for Finance Prakash Sharan Mahat underscored the importance of enhancing the role of economic journalists in light of the rapid growth of the media industry. Speaking at the 25th annual general meeting of the Society of Economic Journalists of Nepal (SEJON), Minister Mahat acknowledged that the digital transformation has brought both challenges and opportunities to the journalism sector. He also mentioned the government's efforts to rejuvenate the country's economy and called upon the support of the private sector, the public, and journalists in achieving this objective.

Minister Mahat emphasized the necessity for constructive dialogue among stakeholders to revive economic activities, discouraging excessive pessimism and highlighting the inevitability of risks in business operations. He expressed optimism regarding the country's economy, citing improvements in remittances and tourism as positive signs.

Chandra Prakash Dhakal, president of the Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FNCCI), voiced concerns about unaddressed suggestions and demands from the private sector, which has contributed to the current economic situation. He mentioned a decline in public confidence and decreased demand and supply, emphasizing the need for policy stability to expedite economic recovery.

Rajendra Malla, chairman of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC), stressed the importance of coordination among all stakeholders to uplift the country's economic situation. He pointed out challenges related to regulatory compliance and called on the government to hold discussions in the Cabinet for the immediate revival of economic activities.

Oli Chosen as the New President of SEJON

The 25th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Society of Economic Journalists of Nepal (SEJON) concluded successfully on Saturday, resulting in the election of a fresh executive committee. During the AGM, Sujan Oli emerged as the newly elected president of the organization. Oli secured 99 votes, surpassing his closest rival Shiromani Dhungana, who received 96 votes, while Saraswoti Dhakal garnered 56 votes. Additionally, Binaya Banjara secured the position of vice president with 135 votes. Biswas Regmi assumed the role of general secretary without opposition. Sovit Thapaliya was elected as secretary, and Achyut Puri became the treasurer. In a similar vein, Basanta Raj Upreti, Keshu Lamichhane, Hemanta Joshi, Chhabi Lal Sapkota, and Mamta Thapa were elected as members of SEJON's executive committee.