Sudhan Gurung Likely To Be Reappointed Nepal Home Minister Following Inquiry Report
Inquiry report clears Gurung, paving way for ministerial return.
Sudhan Gurung is set to be reappointed as Nepal’s Home Minister after an inquiry committee reportedly found no evidence of financial misconduct in connection with allegations that led to his resignation earlier this year. According to officials, Prime Minister Balendra Shah has recommended his name to President Ram Chandra Poudel, with the swearing-in ceremony expected to take place later on Tuesday.
The recommendation follows the Cabinet’s decision to accept a report submitted by a government-formed probe committee that examined allegations related to Gurung’s financial dealings. While the report has not yet been formally made public, media reports suggest the panel did not find any direct evidence linking Gurung to improper financial transactions or misconduct.
Gurung had stepped down from his position as Home Minister on April 22 amid controversy surrounding alleged business links with a Kathmandu-based businessman who is currently facing money-laundering charges. At the time, he resigned stating that he wanted to ensure an impartial investigation and avoid any conflict of interest while in office.
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Since his resignation, Prime Minister Shah had been handling the Home Ministry portfolio directly. The government subsequently formed an investigation committee headed by former judge Achyut Prasad Bhandari on May 11 to examine the allegations. The panel has now submitted its findings to the Prime Minister, paving the way for Gurung’s possible reinstatement.
According to reports, the committee concluded that no banking records or documentary evidence established financial transactions between Gurung and the businessman in question. During the inquiry, Gurung reportedly stated that his wealth came from business activities, including operating a hotel in Kathmandu’s Thamel area, and subsequent investments in shares and gold.
The controversy had previously drawn attention after asset disclosures showed Gurung among the wealthier members of the Cabinet, with holdings in land, cash deposits and company shares. Questions were raised in public discourse regarding the scale of his assets, though he defended his financial background, stating that accumulating wealth through legitimate means before entering public office was not wrongdoing.
Gurung, a prominent figure associated with Nepal’s Gen-Z political movement, represents the Gorkha-1 constituency in the House of Representatives. His anticipated return to the Home Ministry marks a significant reversal in his political trajectory following months of scrutiny and administrative uncertainty.
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