America Concerned Over Delayed Peace Process and Issues of Transitional Justice in Nepal

The United States has expressed concern over the lingering tasks of Nepal’s peace process and the unresolved issues of transitional justice. In a recent meeting with newly appointed Finance Minister Barshaman Pun, US Ambassador to Nepal Dean R Thompson emphasized the urgency of concluding the pending aspects of the peace process.

According to sources within the Finance Ministry, Ambassador Thompson conveyed his expectations that the bill related to transitional justice would soon reach its final stages, expressing optimism that progress on this front would catalyze the overall momentum of the peace process.

“America is ready to extend assistance to conclude the remaining tasks of the peace process,” Ambassador Thompson affirmed during the meeting, adding that the US stands prepared to provide financial support. He noted that several other nations have also demonstrated interest in supporting Nepal’s peace-building efforts.

The Law, Justice, and Human Rights Committee of the Parliament are currently engaged in finalizing the Transitional Justice (TRC) bill. However, during a recent meeting called by the Committee to endorse the bill, Law Minister Dhan Raj Gurung requested time to discuss contentious issues with the Prime Minister.

In response to raised concerns regarding certain provisions of the bill, Minister Gurung highlighted the necessity of internal deliberations on the matter. Additionally, the CPN-UML emphasized the importance of ensuring that the bill is victim-friendly.

Following the recent shift in the ruling coalition, a scheduled meeting of the Law Committee aimed at finalizing the TRC bill was postponed. However, the government remains committed to concluding the bill within this parliamentary session through consensus building.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Thompson reiterated the United States’ commitment to providing development assistance to Nepal. In acknowledgment of this commitment, Minister Pun expressed gratitude, acknowledging the significant role of the US in Nepal’s overall development endeavors.