Gurung faces probe, calls allegations “media trial”
With the formation of the committee, Gurung is now expressing cautious optimism that he will be vindicated and potentially cleared for a political return.
KATHMANDU: The government has formed a three-member investigation committee on Thursday to probe allegations and controversies surrounding former Home Minister Sudhan Gurung.
The decision comes after Gurung himself repeatedly called for an impartial investigation following his resignation from the post.
Gurung’s brief tenure as Home Minister had been marked by growing political scrutiny and several questions over his decisions and conduct, which ultimately led to his resignation.
Since stepping down, he has publicly maintained that a fair investigation would help clear his name.
With the formation of the probe panel, political discussions have intensified, with some suggesting that Gurung could potentially be reinstated if he is cleared of wrongdoing.
However, others have raised concerns, alleging that the investigation process may be politically motivated to pave the way for his return to the Home Ministry.
Following Gurung’s resignation, Prime Minister Balen Shah has not yet appointed a new Home Minister.
The ministry has since been placed under the direct responsibility of the Prime Minister, further fueling speculation that the position may be temporarily being “held” for Gurung’s possible comeback.
Meanwhile, speaking to journalists after a parliamentary session on Thursday night, Gurung reacted to growing media discussions about his possible return. When asked about reports suggesting he could be reinstated as Home Minister within 15 days, he dismissed the speculation and expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as “media trial.”
Responding to questions, he said that investigations must come first and only conclusions based on due process should follow.
He emphasized that no one should act as both investigator and judge, and stressed the importance of responsible and independent journalism.
“I have been requesting an investigation from the beginning. Let the probe happen first. I am just an ordinary citizen. Before becoming Home Minister, I was not in any public position and have not taken any state funds,” Gurung stated.
On the question of his confidence in being cleared, he reiterated that he is the one who has been calling for the investigation and expressed readiness to cooperate fully with the process.
