UML MP Rai slams misuse of PSOs, calls it undemocratic
Rai sarcastically remarked that anyone wearing a daura suruwal (traditional male attire) seems to have a PSO, hinting at the unchecked and symbolic use of state security for personal prestige.
KATHMANDU: CPN-UML lawmaker Rajendra Kumar Rai has raised strong objections over the increasing deployment of Personal Security Officers (PSOs), calling the practice a threat to democracy and public service delivery.
Speaking during a meeting of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee in Singha Durbar on Wednesday — held to discuss the amendment of laws related to Nepal Police — Rai criticized the growing trend of assigning PSOs to almost every individual in power.
“There’s a PSO with everyone these days — it has become a fashion,” he said, adding, “Even police posts are left vacant while leaders walk around with multiple security officers.”
Rai sarcastically remarked that anyone wearing a daura suruwal (traditional male attire) seems to have a PSO, hinting at the unchecked and symbolic use of state security for personal prestige.
He also expressed concern over the practice of assigning police officers to the homes of retired and even current Inspector Generals (IGPs) and Additional Inspector Generals (AIGs) of Police. “This is not acceptable in a democratic system. Retired police officials should not be enjoying state protection as a privilege,” he added.
Urging the Home Minister to address the issue, Rai emphasized that public representatives must focus on delivering visible good governance. “We must work in ways the people can actually see and feel. That is the essence of democracy,” he said.
He also complained that even the police fail to recognize MPs when they wear the parliamentary badge, suggesting a disconnect between law enforcement and elected officials.
