KATHMANDU: Minister for Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation, Balaram Adhikari, has claimed that his name was deliberately dragged into a bribery audio clip as part of a character assassination campaign.
Speaking at a press conference at the ministry on Thursday, Adhikari said the audio, which allegedly involves a conversation about a bribe, was an attempt to damage his personal and political reputation. He stated that if any wrongdoing on his part is proven, he is ready to face legal consequences.
Adhikari insisted that the voices and individuals heard in the audio clip are not connected to him or his ministry. He also accused certain vested interest groups of targeting him and even his family to fulfill their own agendas.
Regarding the issue of staff transfers, Adhikari said such processes are a routine part of government administration and denied any personal involvement.
He added that a cabinet reshuffle had already been agreed upon for after one year, and that until then, he remains committed to fulfilling his responsibilities for the country and the people.
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