Committee Rejects Malaysia, Saudi Envoy Picks; Japan Nominee on Hold

KATHMANDU – The parliamentary hearing committee has unanimously rejected the name of Chudamani Kharel, proposed by the Council of Ministers as ambassador to Malaysia.

When Kharel’s name was put forward for a decision at the committee’s Wednesday meeting, all lawmakers from parties including the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Congress, CPN-UML and the Nepal Communist Party rejected it unanimously.

Committee chair Bodhnarayan Shrestha announced the unanimous decision that Kharel should not be approved for appointment as ambassador because high moral character was not evident. Kharel faced allegations including financial irregularities.

Giri Bahadur Sunar, proposed as ambassador to Saudi Arabia, faces allegations ranging from violence against women to financial misappropriation. A woman described as his victim recounted to lawmakers the violence she says she suffered. He is also accused of taking a bribe of 3.3 million rupees, together with lawmaker Khagendra Sunuwar, to secure the promotion of a deputy inspector general of police (DIG).

The committee also rejected Sunar’s name.

A complaint has also been filed with the committee against Gyan Kumar Thapa, the proposed ambassador to Japan, alleging that he holds permanent residency (PR) in Japan. The complaints against both men ask the committee not to approve them for appointment as ambassador.

After Thapa’s name was presented for a decision, the committee adjourned its meeting. Chair Shrestha said the committee will meet after Dashain to decide on the matter.