Rabi Lamichhane Accuses Home Minister of Shielding Gold Smugglers

Rabi Lamichhane, Chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), has expressed strong frustration towards Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Narayankaji Shrestha. Lamichhane accuses Shrestha of attempting to shield individuals involved in gold smuggling, adding a layer of controversy to the ongoing investigation.

Addressing the issue at a public program today morning, Lamichhane boldly accused Shrestha of trying to cover up the gold smuggling scandal. Dismissing rumors of his own candidacy for the Home Minister position, Lamichhane asserted that he had no interest in the race and urged Shrestha to focus on his responsibilities.

“I am not in the race for Home Minister. Save your people!” Lamichhane declared emphatically, suggesting that Shrestha might be anticipating a change in the government and insinuating a desire for the Home Minister position.

Lamichhane clarified that he neither aspired for the role nor intended to be part of any coalition race, challenging Shrestha to handcuff him if he could prove any mistakes on his part.

Accusing Shrestha of protecting Immigration Department Director General Jhalkaram Adhikari, Lamichhane emphasized that no action had been taken despite evidence of Adhikari’s communication with the accused Dawa Tshiring. He called for an inquiry into the relationships between the Home Minister’s Secretariat and officials involved in the 61 kg gold smuggling case.

Furthermore, Lamichhane highlighted the lack of transparency in the inquiry Committee’s report on the national identity card printing issue involving a foreign company, despite his cooperation. He urged the Home Minister to address the issues at hand rather than engaging in political maneuvering and stressed the need for accountability.