Federation demands action over Sampang’s controversial remarks
FNJ Sunsari demanded that the Election Commission and local administration investigate Rai’s unconstitutional and inappropriate statements and take necessary action.
KATHMANDU: The Sunsari chapter of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has expressed serious concern over statements made by Harka Sampang, Chair of the Shram Sanskriti Party and candidate for Sunsari Constituency No. 1, targeting journalists and press freedom.
In a statement issued Tuesday, FNJ Sunsari criticized Rai for repeatedly making derogatory remarks against journalists, including those running the online portal Kapuri News, and for recently issuing a threatening statement claiming he would “end journalism.”
The statement, released by FNJ Sunsari Secretary Binay Baharkoti, highlighted Rai’s history of offensive comments against journalists in Dharan, noting that such behavior has caused professional harm, including the displacement of investigative journalist Gopal Dahal.
The FNJ called Rai’s threats “unacceptable,” emphasizing that attempts by a parliamentary candidate to interfere with press freedom and freedom of expression strike at the foundation of democracy. The organization also stressed that criticism and questioning are the core duties of journalism, and no journalist should face threats for reporting on past or present events.
Warning of potential protest action if such behavior continues, FNJ Sunsari demanded that the Election Commission and local administration investigate Rai’s unconstitutional and inappropriate statements and take necessary action.
