Cabals and Cartels

Cabals and Cartels takes us through the early reform years of the 1990s, the insurgency, Gyanendra’s reign, the peace process, and finally the new federal system – with Nepal’s politico-business nexus as the thread running through it all. 

- Kunda Dixit

"This absorbing tale of Nepal's trials and tribulations in a challenging period is remarkable both for the depth of analysis and the breadth of its coverage. Focused on the country's dysfunctional transitional politics in relation to development and international aid, the book crafts a lucid story that reaches into critical aspects of Nepal's political economy to highlight a 'dark underbelly that continues to upset the hopes and promises of post-conflict transition."

- Devendra Raj Pandey, Former Finance Minister and author of Nepal's Failed Development

“A brilliant and courageous analysis of how Nepal's pursuit of reform is ultimately shaped by the realities of the cartels and cabals. It keeps the injustices of daily life of Nepal's citizens firmly in view as it walks us through pivotal moments... For those who care about democracy and development, it provides important insights... For Nepali citizens and policy makers, it provides essential reading and a call to urgent action."

- Clare Lockhart, Director, Institute for State Effectiveness and co-author of Fixing Failed States

“Part memoir, part political-economy analysis, this book is a gripping account of Nepal's struggle for development. Cabals and Cartels doesn't mince words, slays a few sacred cows, and provides an analytical narrative that will help the Nepali people-and those of other poor countries-escape poverty."

- Shantayanan Devarajan, Professor, Practice of International Development, Georgetown University and former Chief Economist of the World Bank's South Asia Region