Rabi Lamichhane Lambasts Home Minister Shrestha in Heated Committee Meeting

In a fiery exchange during the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee meeting today, Rabi Lamichhane, the Chairman of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and a former home minister, launched a scathing critique against Home Minister Narayankaji Shrestha.

The verbal clash between Lamichhane and Shrestha was sparked by the latter’s comments on the tragic Balkumari incident that claimed the lives of two youths on Friday. Lamichhane accused Shrestha of losing control over the police force, asserting that this lapse had far-reaching consequences on the overall security system.

“The police-administration stopped working according to your spirit. Now the question of morality has arisen,” remarked Lamichhane during the meeting.

Expressing concern about Shrestha’s ability to effectively oversee the home administration, Lamichhane questioned Shrestha’s entry into the National Assembly and subsequent appointment as Home Minister after losing the election.

“Even if you don’t appear to crave a position, it is inappropriate to assume such a critical role when lives are being lost daily, and you have been defeated in the election,” he asserted.

Lamichhane also addressed suspicions about Shrestha going astray, directly questioning, “Aren’t you going astray?” These criticisms come amidst growing concerns about the effectiveness of the current leadership in maintaining law and order.

Furthermore, Lamichhane downplayed rumors about his party’s eagerness to join the government, especially as speculations circulated regarding discussions with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda about a potential alliance.

“What do you think we want to come to the government? Is that why you are afraid? We are not in a ‘race’ to come to the government under any circumstances,” Lamichhane emphatically stated, dispelling the rumors about immediate plans to join the government.

Contrary to recent speculations, Lamichhane clarified in the meeting that there was no coalition agreement favoring the RSP’s demands, despite earlier discussions with PM Dahal regarding potential ministerial responsibilities. The party asserted that it currently has no immediate plans to join the government.