KATHMANDU: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged former Prime Minister and CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli to refrain from making provocative remarks that could incite violence or unrest.
In a press statement issued on Monday, the NHRC expressed concern over Oli’s recent public statements, particularly his directive to UML cadres to “keep Kathmandu under control” from 11 am to 2 pm on May 29. The Commission warned that such remarks could undermine constitutional freedoms and the rule of law.
“Freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are guaranteed by Nepal’s Constitution,” the NHRC said. “However, targeting others through inflammatory language that may incite confrontation is against democratic values and human rights norms.”
The NHRC emphasized that maintaining peace and order is the duty of state security agencies—not political parties. The Commission further cautioned that calls to “occupy” areas of the capital could set a dangerous precedent.
The statement comes ahead of a rally planned by the pro-monarchy United People’s Movement Committee on May 29 (Jestha 15). The NHRC said it had been formally notified of the planned rally and would monitor the situation closely.
The Commission called on all parties, including UML, to exercise restraint, respect others’ rights, and ensure that all demonstrations remain peaceful.
Comment