RSP waits as NC demands Rana Magar’s resignation

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has stated that it will decide on the case involving Deputy Speaker Indira Rana Magar after observing the actions taken by the ruling parties. The controversy stems from a letter Rana Magar wrote to the US Embassy in February 2023, requesting a visa interview for an individual unrelated to the Parliament Secretariat. This move has raised concerns among the ruling parties, who questioned her actions, suggesting that the Deputy Speaker’s conduct has undermined the dignity of the office.

In response, the RSP held a secretariat meeting on Wednesday at its parliamentary party office in Singha Durbar. The party decided to adopt a ‘wait and see’ approach before taking any formal action. RSP Acting Spokesperson Manish Jha stated, “As it is not yet clear what the ruling parties will do, we have only discussed the matter without reaching a formal decision.” He added that the party is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to respond assertively if necessary.

While acknowledging that Rana Magar’s action of writing the letter for a visa interview was inappropriate, Jha said that the case that took place over 18 months ago is now being exploited for political gain.

Meanwhile, the Nepali Congress has called for the resignation of Deputy Speaker Rana Magar. During a meeting of top Congress leaders on Wednesday morning, the party concluded that Rana Magar had discredited the nation with her actions. Congress Chief Whip Shyam Ghimire said, “We believe she should choose to step down rather than face formal procedures.”

The letter in question requested visa interviews for five individuals to attend the 67th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. However, the individuals were unable to travel to the US. Following the public release of the letter, Deputy Speaker Rana Magar faced intense scrutiny and controversy.

During a joint meeting of Congress office bearers and former office holders, Ghimire emphasized that this is a significant issue. “This is not a trivial matter. The Deputy Speaker has acted inappropriately by bypassing the necessary foreign affairs procedures,” he said, adding that Parliament itself has been insulted by her actions.

The ruling coalition has reportedly begun preparations to remove Rana Magar from her post. A top-level meeting of Congress has decided to hold further discussions with coalition partners to push for her dismissal. Ghimire also mentioned that a meeting of the Congress parliamentary party will be called to deliberate on the matter.

On Monday evening, the ruling parties discussed the issue at a meeting held at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar. During Tuesday’s parliamentary session, members from both the opposition and ruling parties expressed their concerns about the Deputy Speaker’s actions.