Sudan Gurung returns as Nepal's home minister; Mahabir Pun appointed technology minister

Sudan Gurung has reclaimed the role of home minister in Nepal, less than two months after his resignation. The Rastriya Swatantra Party leader was sworn back into office by President Ramchandra Paudel, alongside Mahabir Pun, who was appointed minister for science, technology, and innovation.

Gurung's return was facilitated by a government-appointed investigation committee that concluded his landholdings were not unusual. However, the committee has yet to finalize its findings on his financial transactions and share investments. The investigation detailed Gurung's land ownership in Dhankuta and properties registered under his father's name in Chitwan and Gorkha, noting that the Gorkha land has limited market value.

Prime Minister Balendra Shah had held the home ministry portfolio himself during the investigation, signaling Gurung's potential reinstatement. Gurung had initially framed his April resignation as a test of the political culture he aimed to foster. He stepped aside to ensure an impartial inquiry into allegations concerning his financial dealings.

Gurung's political career had seen a rapid ascent. Upon his initial appointment, he emphasized an "action-oriented" approach and was instrumental in implementing a report on the Gen Z protests. He quickly became a prominent figure in the government, even initiating discussions for the arrest of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, though they were later released by court order.

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To ensure an impartial investigation into matters concerning me and to avoid any conflict of interest while in office, I have resigned from the post of home minister with immediate effect.