Opposition demands probe panel over FM’s conduct in Parliament

KATHMANDU: Barsaman Pun, leader of the opposition, has accused Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle of undermining the dignity and supremacy of Parliament and has called for the formation of a parliamentary investigation committee.

Speaking in the House of Representatives Nepal session on Friday, Pun alleged that the Finance Minister adopted an intimidating tone while responding to lawmakers’ queries on the upcoming fiscal year’s budget.

He said such conduct reflected disrespect toward Parliament and its members.

Pun further claimed that during parliamentary discussions, the Finance Minister admitted to having adjusted certain tax rates, describing the matter as serious and requiring scrutiny.

He stressed that budget formulation is an institutional process approved by the Council of Ministers and cannot be altered individually by any minister or official.

Calling for a fair and comprehensive inquiry, Pun demanded that all budget processes—including those from previous fiscal years—be reviewed.

He also expressed willingness for even past budgets presented during his own tenure as finance minister to be investigated, saying that any wrongdoing, regardless of scale or timing, must be addressed.

The opposition leader urged the Speaker to issue a ruling and initiate the formation of an impartial parliamentary committee, ideally including newly elected lawmakers, to ensure transparency and credibility in the investigation.

He also referenced past instances where parliamentary committees were formed following allegations of budget irregularities, arguing that a similar approach should be applied in the current case.

Pun accused the Finance Minister of attempting to deflect responsibility by bringing up past and present issues, and emphasized that only a fact-based investigation could establish the truth and safeguard parliamentary integrity.