KATHMANDU: The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) has called for the resignation of Ramhari Khatiwada, chairperson of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee of the House of Representatives, accusing him of moral misconduct in connection with the controversial cooling-off period issue.
Speaking during the outset of Wednesday’s parliamentary session, RSP lawmaker Manish Jha strongly criticized Khatiwada, stating that he bears responsibility for irregularities surrounding the cooling-off period rule. Jha claimed that the controversy has damaged the credibility of the committee and its leadership.
Jha also recalled how the RSP was repeatedly questioned on moral grounds in the past whenever any of its members were embroiled in controversies.
“Back then, when headlines appeared in newspapers, we were the ones asked moral questions,” he said. “Now similar headlines involve the committee chair. Who will answer for this incompetence? Who will bear responsibility?”
The cooling-off period rule has been a matter of significant legal and political debate in Nepal, relating to the time required between holding certain government or constitutional positions and assuming new roles, especially involving conflict of interest.
Allegations have surfaced suggesting the parliamentary committee led by Khatiwada facilitated or overlooked procedural lapses, leading to growing public scrutiny.
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