KATHMANDU: A meeting of the Federal Parliament’s State Affairs and Good Governance Committee, chaired by Congress MP Ram Hari Khatiwada, turned contentious on Monday when Congress MP Hridayaram Thani criticized the chair’s leadership style and questioned the committee’s inefficiency.
The meeting, held in Singha Durbar, was scheduled to discuss complaints against Deputy Speaker Indira Rana Magar, former Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane, and Federal Parliament Secretary Padam Prasad Pandey.
Thani accused the committee of neglecting its responsibilities, citing delays in advancing crucial bills, including the anti-corruption bill.
He expressed dissatisfaction with the chair’s handling of the committee’s agenda, accusing Khatiwada of deviating from priorities.
However, tension rose when Khatiwada interrupted Thani mid-speech.
Feeling disrespected, Thani lashed out, accusing Khatiwada of undermining members’ ability to speak.
“You always interrupt when we speak. If you know everything, you speak, and I won’t!” Thani said, expressing his frustration with Khatiwada’s approach.
Thani further criticized Khatiwada for leaving bills “in ICU,” including the anti-corruption bill, despite the subcommittee completing its report.
He also alleged that the committee’s procedures were poorly managed under Khatiwada’s leadership.
In response, Khatiwada assured the committee that the pending bills, including the anti-corruption legislation, would move forward with consensus. Despite his attempt to pacify Thani, the latter refused to speak further, leaving the session abruptly.
Khatiwada then gave the floor to another MP, Ishwari Neupane, continuing the proceedings amidst visible tensions.
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