KATHMANDU: Nepal Police sources have claimed that Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane was released from Nakkhu Prison on September 9 with the intent of making him the next prime minister, during a period of political turmoil in Kathmandu.
According to a complaint filed at the high-level probe commission led by former justice Gauri Bahadur Karki, Lamichhane’s release was decided on September 8, just hours after the resignation of then Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, following a closed-door discussion among senior officials at the Home Ministry and police leadership.
Sources allege that the decision came after a meeting between then Valley Police Chief AIG Dan Bahadur Karki, Home Secretary Gokarna Mani Duwadi, and RSP Acting Chair DP Aryal. Soon after, Nakkhu Prison authorities released Lamichhane.
The day before, violent clashes had erupted in New Baneshwor during Gen Z Movement, leaving 19 people dead and hundreds injured in police firing. Amid intense pressure, Home Minister Lekhak resigned, citing moral responsibility.
Police insiders say AIG Karki later issued an order to “avoid use of live fire and release detainees,” which allegedly weakened morale within the security forces. Several detainees reportedly attacked police offices and looted weapons during the chaos.
The decision to free Lamichhane has sparked public outrage, with critics accusing authorities of acting under political motives. Police officers stationed in the Valley have demanded an investigation into AIG Karki’s role, stating that the security situation could have been contained if the release order had not been issued.
The government has since announced plans to form a high-level probe commission to investigate the entire episode, including the decision-making process and chain of command.
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