Kathmandu. Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Sobita Gautam has expressed objection to the recent statements issued by international human rights organizations. Speaking at a meeting of the Law, Justice and Human Rights Committee, Minister Gautam stated that the international organizations’ statements have attacked Nepal’s sovereignty.
Minister Gautam challenged the claim of three international organizations that an impeachment motion was being sought against a judge, calling it ‘imaginary’ and demanding proof. ‘The government must ask those organizations for proof regarding the issue of seeking impeachment against a judge,’ she said, ‘No commentary or compromise can be made on my country’s sovereignty.’ She claimed that three international organizations are trying to politicize Nepal’s affairs.
Expressing dissatisfaction that international organizations have publicly released misleading statements without any coordination or discussion with the government, Minister Gautam said, ‘Imaginary statements have been made without a single word with the government. This has created confusion among citizens, which is unacceptable. Organizations working in Nepal should not create distrust in Nepali society.’
Clarifying that the government is fully committed to the independence of the judiciary, Minister Gautam argued that differences in opinion among state organs should not be misunderstood as interference. ‘Different opinions among the judiciary, executive, and legislature are a democratic practice; based on this, it cannot be said that the independence of the judiciary has been violated,’ she added, ‘The government has not put any pressure on the judiciary; this is just a misconception.’
Stating that they are elected representatives, Minister Gautam said that the reform of the judiciary is a priority for them. ‘We have been elected by the people. What mandate the people give us after 5 years is a separate issue, but currently, we are serious about the reform of the judiciary and we need to think about it,’ she said. Minister Gautam made these remarks at the committee meeting after some international human rights organizations recently issued statements showing interest in Nepal’s judiciary and transitional justice.
