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Recently, former Prime Minister and President of the Nepali Congress (NC) Sher Bahadur Deuba, along with Dr Shashanka Koirala, the son of BP Koirala, visited BP Koirala’s ancestral home in Biratnagar. This house is more than just a physical structure; it stands as a symbol of Nepal’s long and arduous democratic struggle, embodying the resilience, vision and sacrifices of one of the nation’s most revered leaders. Given its immense historical significance, I had expected that Deuba, as a leader of the party that BP Koirala formed, would acknowledge its value and push for its preservation as a national museum. Unfortunately, that did not happen.

Despite its crucial role in Nepal’s democratic history, BP Koirala’s home remains neglected, with no concrete efforts from the government or political leadership to conserve it. This is more than just the deterioration of an old building; it is an alarming disregard for Nepal’s democratic legacy. Preserving BP Koirala’s home is not merely about safeguarding bricks and mortar—it is about honoring the struggle for democracy and ensuring that future generations comprehend the sacrifices made for Nepal’s freedom and progress.

BP Koirala, Nepal’s first democratically-elected Prime Minister, was a towering figure in the nation’s political evolution. A staunch advocate of democracy, socialism and nationalism, his ideals laid the foundation for modern Nepal. His Biratnagar residence, where he spent crucial years of his political career, bore witness to key moments in Nepal’s democratic journey. It was within these walls that historic discussions, revolutionary ideas and strategic planning took place, all of which played a significant role in Nepal’s transition away from autocracy. The house, therefore, is not just a relic of the past; it is a living testament to the democratic aspirations of the Nepali people.

Despite its historical and cultural significance, neither the government nor the party has made any effort to make it a museum. There has been no substantial governmental or institutional effort to preserve it, a situation that reflects a broader issue in Nepal: the failure to institutionalize historical memory. Around the world, nations take pride in preserving the residences of their national leaders, converting them into museums and cultural centers to educate future generations. India, for example, has meticulously preserved Mahatma Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram, which serves as both a museum and an educational center. Nelson Mandela’s former residence in South Africa stands as a monument to his struggles and achievements. Nepal, too, must recognize the value of its historical landmarks and act swiftly to preserve them before they are lost to neglect and decay.

Transforming BP Koirala’s home into a national museum would serve multiple purposes. Firstly, it would provide an educational space for citizens, particularly young Nepalis, to learn about Nepal’s democratic history. Schools and universities could utilize it as a learning center, offering invaluable insights into BP Koirala’s ideology and Nepal’s political evolution. Secondly, it would serve as a significant cultural and historical attraction, drawing both domestic and international visitors interested in Nepal’s democratic struggles. Thirdly, it would act as a unifying symbol for the nation, reminding both political leaders and citizens of the fundamental values of democracy, integrity, and principled politics.

To make this vision a reality, the government must take immediate action in collaboration with the party and civil society. A dedicated trust should be established to transform BP Koirala’s home and curate exhibits that showcase his writings, personal artifacts, photographs and audiovisual archives. Additionally, an interactive section could be incorporated to allow visitors to engage with his speeches and ideas through modern, immersive technology. Such efforts would not only preserve the house but also revitalize public interest in Nepal’s democratic heritage.

Nepal cannot afford to let its history fade away through negligence and apathy. The legacy of BP Koirala is too significant to be forgotten. Preserving his home as a museum would be a fitting tribute to his contributions and a reaffirmation of Nepal’s commitment to democracy. The time to act is now—before history crumbles before our eyes.

As a dedicated member of the Nepali Congress, I urge the leadership of our party to take decisive steps toward this cause. With the party currently holding power in the government, there is no better opportunity to take concrete action. The government should initiate the process of acquiring BP Koirala’s home and officially recognizing it as a national museum. This would not only honor BP Koirala’s contributions but also serve as an enduring reminder of Nepal’s democratic journey.

Beyond preserving our democratic legacy, Nepal must also focus on strengthening its global identity. Our country is renowned for its breathtaking mountains, its status as the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, the historical significance of Goddess Sita, and its deep spiritual importance for Hindus around the world. These are core elements of Nepal’s identity, and the government must prioritize the development and promotion of these aspects. Just as we must preserve our democratic history, we must also leverage our cultural and religious heritage to bolster Nepal’s global standing.

By taking action now, Nepal can ensure that both its democratic and cultural heritage are preserved and celebrated for generations to come.

The author, a member of the Supreme Court Bar, has been practicing corporate law for around three decades

In a democracy, freedom of speech, a fundamental right, allows individuals to scrutinize and comment on government actions. However, the act of governing is far more complex than merely facing criticism. Governance, especially in challenging times, requires far more than addressing public grievances; it requires leadership, skill and unwavering commitment.

The current government of Nepal, led by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, is a coalition of the two largest parties in the Parliament with a two-third majority. This government has faced both support and significant backlash, from within the country and beyond. All this is very natural as leaders are under the microscope in a democracy.

While the government as a whole is often scrutinized, one figure stands out—Minister for Foreign Affairs Arzu Rana Deuba. Her diplomatic skills, leadership and ability to handle sensitive negotiations have earned her respect both at home and abroad.

She has demonstrated a deep understanding of international relations. Her speeches in national and international forums reveal a leader, who not only speaks knowledgeably but also acts with clarity and confidence. From engaging with neighboring countries to participating in multilateral discussions, she has consistently represented Nepal with dignity and insight. Her ability to build and sustain relationships with global counterparts has positioned Nepal in a more favorable light internationally.

One of her most commendable actions came when she intervened in the case of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali citizen in Hamas’ captivity. Deuba’s constant engagement with her counterparts in Israel, Qatar and Egypt played a key role in making the negotiators keep in mind the only Nepali, who is held hostage. Her swift response and diplomatic outreach not only demonstrated her commitment to protecting Nepali citizens abroad but also highlighted her ability to act decisively in crisis situations.

Beyond this, Deuba has made significant strides in strengthening Nepal’s relations with its neighbors and the international community. Her official visit to China was an important step in ensuring Nepal’s active participation in global economic and infrastructural projects. Her ongoing efforts to maintain cordial relations with India have also not gone unnoticed. 

Her recent trip to Bangkok, though officially for personal medical reasons, may have included meetings with Indian officials to facilitate Prime Minister Oli’s visit to India as soon as possible. If so, it would be yet another example of her deft handling of foreign relations and her proactive approach to improving ties with Nepal’s southern neighbor.

Her leadership extends beyond diplomacy as she has been an advocate for the rights of Nepali expatriates, ensuring their concerns are heard in the government’s policy decisions. Her efforts in highlighting the Nepali migrant workers’ issues at international fora have earned her praise from labor organizations and advocacy groups alike. Furthermore, her work in advancing gender equality and empowering women has made her a role model for women aspiring to enter politics and diplomacy.

Even as the government continues to face its share of criticism, Deuba has managed to navigate the complexities of foreign policy deftly, making significant strides for Nepal on the global stage. 

In times of political uncertainty, leaders like Deuba remind us that effective governance is not only about managing domestic affairs but also about strengthening a nation’s position in the global community. She has earned the respect and admiration of many, both at home and abroad. Her tenure as Foreign Minister is a testament to her capacity to lead with dignity, skill and a sense of responsibility. Her work deserves recognition, not just for the immediate successes but for the long-term impact she is poised to have on Nepal’s foreign relations.

The author, a member of the Supreme Court Bar, has been practicing corporate law for around three decades. Views are personal 

The year 2024 marked a significant electoral season across major nations, including the UK, the USA, Russia and India. However, global attention was particularly focused on the US presidential election.

Republican Party candidate Donald Trump made a stunning comeback to the White House, defeating Democratic candidate and incumbent Vice-president Kamala Harris. Trump, who lost the 2020 election to Joe Biden after serving his first term (2017-2021), began his 2024 campaign the day his defeat was confirmed. With years of preparation and relentless effort, his strategy paid off.  

Trump secured 312 electoral votes and 50 percent of the popular vote, surpassing the required 270 electoral votes to win leaving Harris with 226 electoral votes and 48.3 percent of the popular vote.

This election was of global importance also because it occurred amid significant global conflicts, notably the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, with Iran and Lebanon's involvement, and the Russia-Ukraine war surpassing 1,000 days. The United States played a pivotal role in these conflicts, both directly and indirectly.

These wars have had profound global repercussions, including soaring inflation rates, environmental degradation and widespread human suffering. The Democratic Party and President Joe Biden's strategies in addressing these crises have come under scrutiny, raising concerns among the American populace.

The American intelligence community, including the Central Intelligence Agency

(CIA), may have made miscalculations in assessing certain global situations. Amid these crises, the United States found itself in a precarious position, facing internal and external challenges. The repercussions of these failures were not only felt domestically but also reverberated across the globe, highlighting America’s struggles on the international stage. And these things did not go unnoticed among the Americans regardless of their political affiliations.

The American people not only elected Trump as president but also gave the Republican Party a majority in both the Senate and the House. This shift in power may reflect a desire among Americans for the US to step back from its involvement in ongoing wars. With Trump now in office, the world watches closely, hoping his first move will be to bring an end to these conflicts and restore peace.

During his election campaign, Trump clarified that he was not against immigrants but opposed illegal immigration, a stance that resonated with many. He also criticized the Democratic Party’s inability to control inflation, which had negatively impacted everyday Americans. Trump promised to tackle inflation by keeping production costs low, including pledging not to raise taxes on industrialists. Additionally, he vowed to restore America to a ‘golden age’ of prosperity. These appealing proposals during his campaign struck a chord with the American public, contributing to his victory.

It was clear that removing America from the ongoing wars would be a difficult task without Republican leadership, and even many Democratic supporters likely recognized this reality.  

Another challenge for the US comes from BRICS, the alliance of global leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. With new members continuing to join, there are growing discussions about creating a potentially gold-backed currency to compete with the US dollar. This proposed BRICS currency could help these nations assert their economic independence and challenge the dominance of the dollar, which currently accounts for about 90 percent of global currency trade. This emerging shift poses a significant headache for the US, and many speculate that Trump may take steps to counter BRICS’ growing influence.

Harris faced significant challenges in her campaign, particularly due to the limited time between her announcement for presidency and the election day. This short window left her with little opportunity to build momentum for her campaign by reaching out to the voters. Additionally, her light personality did not seem to convey the strong leadership needed to tackle the pressing global challenges. However, after her defeat, Harris delivered an extraordinary speech that showcased her grace and respect as a leader. Her acceptance of defeat, alongside her heartfelt congratulations to Trump, demonstrated her integrity. She also reaffirmed her commitment to the US citizens, the Constitution and the promises she made during her campaign, further solidifying her stature as a respected figure in American politics.

The elite class in the US played a significant role in helping Trump win the election, but there is hope that his administration will not solely represent the interests of the wealthy. People around the world, who view the US as a global guardian, hope that this perception will not be lost. Rhetorics aside, Trump may continue America’s support for the United Nations’ agencies and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as this is something the world desires as well.  

As a Nepali citizen, I extend my congratulations to Trump and hope that he will continue to uphold the hopes of people around the world.

The author is a member of the Supreme Court Bar and has been practicing corporate law for around three decades

In Nepal, there is a notable pattern: Whenever there is a change in the federal government, the provincial governments often follow suit. Coalition partners tend to mirror this pattern from the central level down to the provinces, contributing to ongoing political instability.

This phenomenon has created a ripple effect, where the lack of a stable federal government leads to instability at the provincial level, affecting governance and development projects across the country.

The root of this instability lies in the difficulty of securing a parliamentary majority for any single party. This fragmented political landscape forces parties into coalition governments, which are often tenuous and prone to collapse.

Federalism, rather than facilitating development and revenue generation, has become a costly endeavor, exacerbated by frequent political shifts. The promise of federalism to bring governance closer to the people and spur localized development has been overshadowed by these political uncertainties.

This situation underscores the urgency of finding a viable solution.

Some leaders believe that amending the constitution could address these challenges and provide a path forward. A more stable and inclusive political framework could help ensure that the benefits of federalism are realized without the current drawbacks of instability and inefficiency.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has already presented a seven-point agreement signed between the Nepali Congress (NC) and the CPN-UML during a parliamentary session. The agreement, which led to the formation of the new government, was signed by PM Oli and NC President Sher Bahadur Deuba. The second point of the agreement addresses constitutional review and amendments, stating that the new government will assess the constitution’s performance, address its weaknesses, and make necessary amendments for political stability.

PM Oli has been actively advocating for this agenda. In a recent meeting with the delegation of the Nepal Bar Association, he stated that amending the constitution is not a regressive move. He urged them to trust the people’s mandate and reminded them that the constitution includes a provision for amendment if two-thirds of the parliamentarians support it. He questioned how they could view constitutional amendments as a threat to democracy, emphasizing that such changes are a natural part of a dynamic and responsive governance system.

It is said that to amend the constitution, the government of Pushpa Kamal Dahal was ousted, and the two largest parties in the parliament have joined forces. The UML and NC are reportedly seeking amendments in the electoral system and equation, the process and pattern of choosing people’s representatives, and a reevaluation of the inclusion system. These proposed changes aim to create a more equitable and efficient political process that can stop political instability.

Those leaders advocating for these changes must invite all political parties for open discussions and hold a series of roundtable meetings to reach a political consensus. Constitutional amendment is a regular process globally, and it can be achieved in Nepal as well. I too believe it has become necessary to amend the constitution. But it cannot be done solely based on the decisions of two leaders.

Whether it’s small parties, big parties, national parties, regional parties, or any agenda-based parties, each one should be heard and be part of the political consensus. Whether it be the party of Narayan Man Bijukchhe or Chitra Bahadur KC or Rajendra Lingden or Upendra Yadav or CK Raut, or even those outside the parliament—everyone must be included. This inclusivity is crucial to ensure that the amendments reflect a broad spectrum of interests and are sustainable.

To facilitate this, a Constitution Amendment Recommendation Commission should be formed to prepare a draft based on political consensus. The commission should be led by a person recognized by Nepal’s political movements, an expert on law and constitution, and accepted by all—such as former Chief Justice Gopal Parajuli. Such a commission would bring credibility and expertise to the process, helping to navigate the complex legal and political landscape.

We should also listen to our neighbors, but ultimately, we must do what our country and citizens need. While external perspectives can provide valuable insights, the primary focus should be on addressing the specific needs and aspirations of the Nepalis. Amendments or decisions made without consensus or by excluding any parties will not provide stability or be long-lasting.

Moreover, constitutional amendments can lead to anarchy if all recommendations are not included. This potential for discord highlights the importance of a comprehensive and inclusive approach. To minimize or avoid these challenges, political consensus is a must. Only through collaborative effort and mutual respect can Nepal achieve a stable and prosperous future.

The author, a member of the Supreme Court Bar, has been practicing corporate law for around three decades

From the land of Sagarmatha, the highest peak in the world, I congratulate Keir Starmer on being elected the prime minister of the United Kingdom.

The 2024 UK general election was held on Thursday, July 4, to elect 650 members of Parliament (MPs) to the House of Commons, the lower house of the UK Parliament. The governing Conservative Party under Rishi Sunak was defeated in a landslide by the opposition Labor Party under Starmer.

The arrival of the new Prime Minister has ushered in a wave of changes. With a message to the world—‘We’re back’—Starmer envisions Britain taking a more prominent role on the global stage, following years of strained relations with Europe over Brexit and internal political turmoil.

In the hours following his inauguration, Starmer engaged in a series of calls with world leaders, including US President Joe Biden, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen, and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Starmer assumes office amid multiple crises, including conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

He recently traveled to Washington, DC for NATO’s 75th-anniversary summit, affirming that Britain’s steadfast support for Ukraine will continue. He has also pledged to increase UK military spending to 2.5 percent of GDP.

On July 18, Starmer will host European leaders at England’s Blenheim Palace for a meeting of the 47-nation European Political Community. This gathering presents an opportunity to begin repairing ties with the UK's European neighbors, which have deteriorated since the UK left the European Union in 2020.

Starmer aims to reduce some of the post-Brexit barriers affecting the movement of people and goods between Britain and the EU. However, he insists that he will not reverse Brexit or seek to rejoin the EU’s single market and customs union.

Starmer’s demeanor, gestures and body language all signal that the UK is ready to reassert itself. He will need to navigate the rising influence of France and Germany within NATO by backing up US decisions, as well as the dominance of the US in the West.

In developed countries, foreign policy and international relations typically remain stable despite changes in government. However, with the arrival of a new government following a significant election result in the UK, the Labor leader has the potential to positively impact the UK’s international relations, foreign policy, economy and peace efforts. His leadership appears intelligent and bold, promising to steer the country effectively on multiple fronts.

Let’s hope the new government addresses all the gaps left by the previous administration. In his first speech as British PM, Keir Starmer promised to ‘rebuild’ a country that voted en masse for a change in direction amid widespread public anger over deteriorating public services and a faltering economy. The new government faces significant challenges, including boosting economic growth, reforming the social care system and securing new funding for local authorities.

In just a few days on the job, six key issues have emerged as immediate priorities for Prime Minister Starmer: immigration, NHS strikes, the prisons crisis, planning reforms, relations with nations and regions, and EU relations. These priorities demonstrate that he is focused on addressing both national, regional and global issues.

A nation’s power is not solely determined by its wealth, military strength, population, or territory; the leadership and diplomatic skills of its leader are also crucial. Effective leadership can harness these resources to navigate challenges, inspire progress and foster a cohesive and resilient society. Given a landslide victory, Starmer is well-positioned to lead effectively. With a strong mandate from the electorate, he has the political capital to implement his vision and address the pressing issues facing the country. This overwhelming support can enable him to drive substantial changes and navigate the complexities of governance with greater confidence and authority.

The author is a member of the Supreme Court Bar and has been practicing corporate law for around three decades

The 2024 Indian general elections have concluded with unexpected results, prompting a re-evaluation of the political landscape. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), secured a majority in parliament, marking Narendra Modi’s third term as Prime Minister. However, the BJP did not achieve a majority on its own, revealing a shift in voter sentiment.

In 2014, the BJP won 282 seats, and in 2019, it increased its tally to 303 seats, both times securing a clear majority on its own. However, in 2024, the BJP’s seat count dropped to 240, falling short of the 272 seats needed for a majority, which necessitated reliance on its allies within the NDA to form the government.

Since 2014, the BJP has dominated Indian politics, winning commanding majorities in the 2014 and 2019 elections under Modi’s leadership. This period saw significant policies and reforms aimed at economic growth, national security and cultural resurgence. However, the 2024 election results reveal a more complex narrative.

Public perception of BJP leadership, especially Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, significantly influenced the 2024 results. Critics have often pointed to their approach toward the opposition, characterized by a lack of tolerance for dissent, suppression and the use of pressure tactics. Many voters expressed dissatisfaction with this attitude, feeling it undermined the democratic fabric of the country. The electorate seemed eager to curb this perceived authoritarian streak, signaling a desire for a more inclusive and accommodative leadership style.

The Muslim community notably voiced its discontent, feeling marginalized and oppressed under BJP’s rule. High-profile projects like the Ram Mandir construction and consecration only deepened these concerns, further alienating this significant voter base. Even in the Ram Mandir area, the BJP didn’t win.

Modi’s government faced criticism for its SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) policy, which some analysts believe neglected regional cooperation and damaged relationships with neighboring countries, contrary to its ‘neighborhood first’ policy. This aspect may have also contributed to the dip in voter support, as citizens recognized the importance of strong regional ties for national stability and growth.

The decrease in voter support for the BJP in 2024 should be a wake-up call for the party. Despite Modi being hailed as one of India’s most impactful leaders since Jawaharlal Nehru, and his commendable performance on the global stage, the electorate’s diminishing enthusiasm suggests a need for introspection. The Indian populace seems to be advocating for a diversification in leadership to prevent the stagnation of Modi’s image and to ensure a dynamic governance model.

The current political landscape reveals a fragile NDA, with allies like Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu failing to inspire confidence due to their history of shifting alliances. This uncertainty paves the way for potential shifts in power, with the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) emerging as a possible alternative. The INDIA alliance, comprising several opposition parties, won 210 seats in the 2024 elections. While still behind the NDA, their growing influence suggests they could be a formidable contender in the near future if power dynamics change. However, the specter of a midterm election also looms large, which could have detrimental effects on India’s economy and its standing on the global stage.

Despite these challenges, ministers like Nirmala Sitharaman and S Jaishankar have demonstrated exceptional competence. Sitharaman’s economic policies have strengthened India’s financial position, while Jaishankar’s diplomatic efforts have bolstered India’s global image. Retaining them in their respective ministries is crucial for maintaining continuity and progress in these areas.

The coming days are fraught with challenges for India. Internal power struggles, developmental hurdles, economic uncertainties, and maintaining global and regional presence will test the resilience of Modi’s government. The electorate’s message is clear: The BJP must adapt, evolve, and embrace a more inclusive and democratic approach to governance. Only then can Modi hope to lead India effectively through the complexities of contemporary geopolitics and domestic affairs.

As India stands at a crossroads, the hope is that Modi and his government will heed these lessons, striving for a more inclusive, democratic and progressive India. The nation's future hinges on their response to this electoral wake-up call.

The author, a member of the Supreme Court Bar, has been practicing corporate law for around three decades

Nepal and other small nations, despite their negligible contributions to carbon emissions, bear the brunt of climate change impacts disproportionately. This inequity underscores a harsh reality: While larger, more industrialized nations emit the lion’s share of greenhouse gasses, it is the smaller, less developed countries that suffer the most severe consequences. 

In Nepal, the effects are palpable—from melting glaciers to increasingly erratic monsoon patterns and heightened vulnerability to natural disasters. This disparity highlights the urgent need for global solidarity and concerted action to address climate change, ensuring that all nations, regardless of their size or level of development, are supported in mitigating and adapting to its effects.

The assertion that war contributes to carbon emissions highlights a sobering reality: While conflicts may be waged by powerful nations, their repercussions extend far beyond, affecting even peace-loving countries like Nepal. Despite not being directly involved in conflicts, Nepal, like many other nations, has to grapple with the environmental fallout of warfare, such as increased emissions from military activities and the destruction of natural habitats.

Given this context, there’s a compelling argument for developed nations to step up and support countries like Nepal in combating the climate crisis. Climate finance, in particular, emerges as a crucial mechanism through which developed nations can fulfill their responsibility to assist vulnerable countries in mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts. Concrete data on the extent of glacial melting or changes in monsoon patterns could enhance the clarity and make the argument in favor of climate finance more powerful.

The recent devastating floods in countries like the US, the UAE, Oman and China serve as poignant reminders of the urgent need to prioritize climate change. These catastrophic events underscore the increasingly severe impacts of climate change on communities and economies worldwide.

Nepal recently convened the ‘International Dialogue on Mountains, People, and Climate,’ a crucial platform where stakeholders voiced their apprehensions regarding the escalating adverse effects of climate change on the Himalayas. Urgent action to mitigate these impacts was fervently advocated for, drawing the attention of the international community to this pressing issue. For instance, Bangladesh’s Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Saber Hossain Chowdhury, expressed grave concerns about the existential threat due to snow-melting in the Nepal Himalayas due to climate change.

Emphasizing the criticality of swift and decisive action, the minister underscored the necessity of adopting timely measures and maintaining heightened vigilance to mitigate the looming impact of climate change. He stressed the imperative of minimizing climate change’s adverse effects and bolstering adaptation efforts to fortify climate resilience, not just for Bangladesh but for all vulnerable regions across the globe.

During COP28 also, Nepal successfully globalized its agenda, amplifying its voice on the international stage. The visit of United Nations’ Secretary-General António Guterres to Nepal further bolstered this effort, providing a crucial platform to elevate Nepali concerns to the global forefront. His visit not only signaled solidarity with Nepal’s cause but also helped to galvanize international support and attention toward addressing the unique challenges faced by mountainous regions.

In this context, engaging ambassadors and diplomats stationed in Nepal to advocate for global attention to Nepal’s environmental concerns is indeed a strategic move with potential far-reaching benefits. These diplomatic figures can leverage their positions to draw attention to Nepal’s pressing environmental issues and rally support from the international community.

Diplomats like Dean R Thompson, the US’ Ambassador to Nepal, whose personal appreciation for Nepal’s natural beauty is evident, can serve as influential advocates for environmental conservation efforts. Their advocacy can help elevate Nepal’s environmental priorities on the global stage and encourage collaborative initiatives to address pressing challenges.

Furthermore, the involvement of neighboring giants like China and India is crucial, given their direct stake in Nepal’s environmental well-being. As Nepal shares critical ecological resources and biodiversity hotspots with its neighbors, cooperation among these nations is essential for effective environmental management and conservation.

Recognizing the inseparable link between the environment and human health is paramount. The impacts of the climate crisis are becoming increasingly apparent, affecting not only the natural world but also humanity and livelihoods.

As the effects of climate change intensify, with rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation, the health and resilience of both the environment and the people are at stake. Addressing the climate crisis is therefore not only an environmental imperative but also a critical public health priority.

By working together to save Nepal’s natural treasures, we can help ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for all Nepalis and the planet as a whole.

The author, a member of the Supreme Court Bar, has been practicing corporate law for around three decades

A recent audio clip referencing a Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court and implicating the chairpersons of Annapurna Media Network and Kantipur Media Group has caused significant controversy in Nepal, drawing widespread attention and debate.

In response to these events, the Supreme Court has taken action by summoning Yuvaraj Kandel, the publisher of sidhakura.com, along with Navin Dhungana, the executive editor of the website, to face accusations of contempt of court. This move is based on allegations that the website released ‘fake’ audiovisual news reports that defamed a sitting Supreme Court Justice, senior legal professionals, and various media figures.

The reports claimed that Justice Ananda Mohan Bhattarai, Chairperson of Annapurna Media Network Capt Rameshwar Thapa, and Chairperson of Kantipur Media Group Kailash Sirohiya, along with other notable figures such as Surendra Kafle, a special correspondent for the Annapurna Post, and senior advocates Hari Upreti and Kishor Bista, were involved in a secretive meeting. The reports suggested that this meeting’s purpose was to dismiss over 400 corruption cases.

Given the severity of the claims and their potential impact on public trust in the judiciary, the apex court has also directed Nepal Police to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. The court’s actions underscore the importance of addressing false information that could harm public institutions and individuals’ reputations. It also sends a clear message about the seriousness of disseminating fake news that can damage the credibility of the judiciary. If such cases are not investigated rigorously, it could encourage the spread of similar misinformation, further eroding trust in public institutions and the media.

To prevent incidents like this from occurring in the future, it’s crucial that all branches of government—the executive, legislative, judiciary and media—operate effectively and independently. When each state organ performs its functions with integrity and without interference from others, the overall system becomes more robust and resistant to misinformation and corruption.

In a well-functioning system, the executive branch ensures that laws are implemented fairly and transparently, the legislative branch enacts clear and just legislation, and the judiciary interprets these laws impartially, upholding justice and the rule of law. This balance among the branches provides a framework in which truth and justice can prevail, reducing the risk of false reports or conspiracy theories gaining traction.

If the leadership in these branches upholds high standards of conduct and accountability, it creates an environment where trust can flourish. This trust, in turn, minimizes the chances of misleading information and corruption, causing chaos or undermining the credibility of key institutions.

When controversies or misconduct emerge involving members of any state organ, it is crucial that the leadership takes swift and decisive action. This demonstrates accountability and reinforces the principles of integrity and public trust. For instance, in the past, when Bishwonath Upadhyaya served as Chief Justice, there was a controversy involving Justice Har Govinda Singh Pradhan. Once it was proven that Justice Pradhan had engaged in misconduct, Chief Justice Upadhyaya responded by not assigning him any court cases, effectively relieving him of his judicial duties. This decisive action underscored the seriousness with which the judiciary addresses ethical breaches.

Similar principles should apply across all organs of the state. If an individual in the executive, legislative, or judiciary is proven guilty of misconduct or corruption, the leadership must take appropriate measures to ensure accountability. This could involve removing the individual from their duties, initiating disciplinary proceedings, or taking legal action as required by the severity of the misconduct.

By doing so, the leadership sets a standard of ethical behavior and sends a clear message that no one is above the law. It also helps restore public confidence in the system, assuring citizens that those in power are held to the same standards as everyone else. This approach fosters a culture of responsibility and deters others from engaging in unethical practices.

In my earlier op-ed, I argued that Nepal should aim to be a society where truth is revered and upheld in all facets of life. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for authorities to operate with near-total impunity, often infringing on both political and economic rights. This reality weakens the principle of justice, a principle that should be at the heart of governance.

To tackle this, we need a legal framework that fosters honesty and respect across the board. This involves not just creating new laws but also rigorously enforcing existing ones to ensure they serve the purpose of promoting truth and justice. When individuals spread false information or incite hatred, there should be tangible consequences, regardless of their rank or status. This standard should be applied equally to all, whether they’re ordinary citizens, influential politicians, high-ranking bureaucrats, or even members of the judiciary.

No one should be above the law. Anyone found guilty of disseminating falsehoods or engaging in hate speech must be held accountable and subjected to appropriate penalties. This kind of enforcement is essential for maintaining social harmony and ensuring that no one can manipulate public sentiment without facing repercussions.

In recent times, many state and constitutional organs in Nepal have faced criticism and controversy, struggling to maintain a positive image or deliver effective governance. However, one notable exception has been the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) under the leadership of Prem Kumar Rai. His tenure as chief commissioner of the CIAA has been marked by a distinct absence of controversy, and his long career in the bureaucracy had also demonstrated integrity and commitment to the public good.

Rai’s leadership style serves as a model for effective governance. He has managed to steer the CIAA with a clear focus on its core mission—to investigate and prevent the abuse of authority and corruption. This kind of leadership is precisely what other state and constitutional organs need to emulate if they are to regain public confidence and ensure the proper functioning of government.

To bring about meaningful reform and reduce controversies within state and constitutional organs, the effort must begin with politicians, who often play pivotal roles in shaping the direction of governance. Politicians have significant influence across all levels of government, and their actions can either promote integrity or foster corruption. If they are involved in unethical practices, it undermines the entire system and erodes public trust.

The author is a member of the Supreme Court Bar and has been practicing corporate law for around three decades. Views are personal