UML General Secretary Questions Speaker on Source of Overseas Earnings

Shankar Pokharel, General Secretary of the Nepal Communist Party (UML), has stated that the facade of ‘good governance’ promoted by the current government and the so-called new powers has been exposed. Pokharel emphasized that Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal must explain the source of his alleged overseas earnings and whether the necessary taxes have been paid. He also warned of a strong rebuttal, calling the actions harmful to party chairman KP Sharma Oli. Date: 28 Chaitra, Kathmandu.

Pokharel accused ministers and the Speaker of disrespecting transparency under the guise of good governance. Raising questions about Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal’s asset declaration, he said, “Becoming an owner from a worker is not a crime, but what channel did that overseas income come through? Has the state received the appropriate tax payments? The Speaker has the responsibility to answer these questions.”

Responding to delays by ministers in submitting their asset declarations, Pokharel declared that his party’s leadership is prepared to face any trial. He added, “Good governance should not be used to intimidate others; those who promote it must adhere to it themselves. UML leaders are ready to endure any trial—are those who claim to be ‘new’ prepared?”

Regarding the commission formed to investigate the Jenajee movement, Pokharel criticized its use as a ‘weapon of retribution.’ He stated that such actions have caused distress to party chairman KP Sharma Oli and warned that the party will strongly oppose these moves.