Following the public release of an audio clip implicating Federal Affairs and General Administration Minister Rajkumar Gupta in a bribery scandal, Nepal’s political parties have reacted strongly. The main opposition Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) and Rashtriya Swatantra Party (RSP) have demanded a clear explanation from Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.
During the House of Representatives session on Sunday, lawmakers stressed that both the minister and the prime minister must be held accountable, urging serious attention to the bribery allegations. Maoist Centre lawmaker Durga Rai said the minister’s involvement in bribery is not merely a personal issue but relates to government leadership. “It is unacceptable for the government’s top leadership to remain silent on this issue. Immediate action and a thorough investigation must follow such public allegations,” she said.
Similarly, Maoist Centre lawmaker Rekha Sharma noted that the Land Management Minister is also implicated and demanded that the prime minister provide full disclosure in parliament. She warned that reports of a 7.8 million rupee bribery deal in staff transfers could severely damage the government’s image.
Opposition Demands Transparency and Investigations
Earlier, Rashtriya Swatantra Party lawmaker Sumana Shrestha called on the prime minister to take notice. She demanded a response from the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority, highlighting the case’s blow to good governance. Shrestha also requested clarification regarding the reference to “Ba” in the audio, asking for an explanation in parliament.
Opposition leaders describe the incident not as isolated corruption but as a critical issue affecting Nepal’s governance, leadership, and transparency. They say the government must strengthen anti-corruption measures and ensure no guilty party is spared.
The controversy is expected to spark intense debate between parliament and the government in the coming days, likely undermining public trust. Political parties are pressing for a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible, demanding full accountability.
