KATHMANDU: UML Chief Whip Mahesh Bartola has criticized the opposition’s move to obstruct parliament over the resignation demand of Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, calling it unconstitutional and politically motivated.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday after the parliamentary session was adjourned, Bartola said it was inappropriate to hold a minister accountable merely because an investigation is being conducted against civil servants under the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA).
He stated that many public officials have been investigated or penalized in the past, but such actions do not warrant direct political blame on a minister unless proven otherwise.
According to Bartola, opposition lawmakers are attempting to politicize the issue out of vengeance, turning political discourse into a matter of personal retaliation.
Bartola said constitutional bodies, including the CIAA, are functioning independently and are capable of conducting fair inquiries.
He noted that while the UML stands firm on taking action against those involved in the visit visa scam, it is premature to assign guilt or push for ministerial resignations without the completion of due legal process.
He further argued that the current government has maintained the rule of law and promoted good governance, and anyone found guilty—regardless of position—will not be spared.
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