Home minister faces criticism online — and within his own party

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) came to power on a wave of public demand for good governance, transparency, and clean politics. Now, allegations surrounding Home Minister Sudan Gurung's investments, reportedly linked to businessman Deepak Bhatta who is under investigation for money laundering, put these very principles to the test. Leaders within the RSP are rightly calling for a fair investigation, recognizing that the party cannot afford to be seen as shielding its members from scrutiny, especially when the allegations are as serious as these.

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Sah was sacked without allowing him to clarify. Allegations against the home minister are more serious.

This situation is particularly sensitive given the RSP's recent recall of Labour Minister Deepak Kumar Sah over a controversy involving his wife's appointment. Party insiders emphasize that the allegations against Gurung are more serious, and the party cannot remain silent. The demand for an investigation is not merely about individual accountability; it's about the RSP's credibility. A government founded on the promise of integrity must ensure all its members are beyond reproach. Failure to address these concerns transparently could severely hinder the party's ability to govern effectively and maintain public trust.

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No wrongdoing should be covered up. It should be investigated through a proper mechanism.

While the party leadership acknowledges the matter and consultations are underway, the absence of a discussion on the issue at the Central Committee meeting raises concerns. The core of the problem lies in upholding the RSP's founding ideals. If questions are raised about a minister's investments, particularly those potentially linked to illicit activities, an investigation becomes not just necessary but imperative. The party must clarify the source of Gurung's investments and ensure that his ownership of shares does not equate to a partnership with Bhatta, especially since the shares were reportedly purchased after the Gen Z movement and were not initially listed in his public asset declaration. This is a critical moment for the RSP to demonstrate its commitment to the transparency it promised its voters.

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A government founded on the movement for good governance and transparency should have all its members beyond reproach. If this continues, it will be difficult to run both the government and the party.