AWC calls for credibility, transparency in selection of officials in TJ Commissions

KATHMANDU: The Accountability Watch Committee (AWC) has demanded formation of a new selection committee to ensure credibility of the process in the appointment of officials to the two Transitional Justice-related commissions.

In a press statement issued by the Committee’s coordinator Raju Prasad Chapagain here today, the Committee emphasized on transparency and credibility and ensuring that the past errors regarding selection process of the officials are not repeated.

The statement read, “Given the gravity of transitional justice process, we strongly urge the Government of Nepal to form a new selection committee comprising independent individuals to take ownership of the selection process as well as all the victims.”

The Committee insisted that new selection committee should adopt an open, transparent, consultative and participatory approach including public hearings to facilitate a legitimate transitional justice process.

The Committee stated that questions were raised regarding the legitimacy and credibility of the previous selection committee that was formed prior to the introduction of the legislation that aims to address transitional justice related issues.

The Committee has, however, acknowledged the positive intent of the major three political parties to take forward the process to form the Transitional Justice Commissions.

It reiterated that the official selection process be transparent and credible without repeating past mistakes.