KATHMANDU: Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has expressed objection to media reports framing her telephone conversation with Shobha Gyawali, Managing Director of Republic Media, as a threat.
In a press note issued on Friday, Minister Deuba said she was surprised by what she called “misleading and fabricated” media content based on the phone call, which she claims has been deliberately distorted.
“I was astonished to see news published in Nagarik Daily claiming that my telephone conversation with Ms. Shobha Gyawali amounted to a threat,” Rana wrote. “The conversation was about a misleading and baseless video circulating on social media, which defames my family. I reached out for clarification, and the matter is currently undergoing judicial scrutiny.”
She further clarified that the media outlet responsible for the video in question is not registered with any official government body and that legal procedures were being followed, including the issuance of an arrest warrant by the court.
Minister Rana said she had only suggested responsible journalism, referencing globally reputed media like The New York Times, and urged Republic Media to fact-check content before publishing it.
She expressed dismay at how their conversation was mischaracterized, adding, “It is unfortunate that the discussion has been twisted and portrayed as threatening.”
Highlighting her long-standing commitment to democracy, she reaffirmed her respect for press freedom.
“As a responsible member of the Nepali Congress – a party that has made tremendous sacrifices for democracy and press freedom – I understand the value of a free press. However, media must not lose its sense of responsibility and credibility.”
Foreign Minister Rana concluded by stressing that while media and democracy are complementary, journalists also bear the responsibility of respecting individual freedoms and refraining from sensationalism.
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