NOBLE WISH

The Kathmandu Post

21 August 2015

NOBLE WISH

Narayan Manandhar in his article “Abuse of authority” (August 12. Page 6) writes “If an executive can override the decision of the court, where is the rule of law in Nepal?” In the name of the republic, senior political leaders seem to be undermining the universally accepted norms and values of democracy. If such irresponsible acts continue, there are high chances that Nepal will soon lose the essence of democracy in the coming days.

Considering the growing institutionalization of corruption taking place in the political, bureaucratic and private organizations, Nepal definitely needs a strong, independent, autonomous, impartial and accountable anti-graft body. However, the practice of political bhagbnada, while appointing members, has completely undermined the formation of independent and autonomous constitutional bodies. If this persists, the future Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) will be rendered even ineffective.

Followed by a strong public outcry and a kind of “note of dissent” from the CIAA, it is a relief that the drafters of the new constitution agreed to restore the CIAA’s existing jurisdiction Otherwise, they would have decided to curtail its power to investigate acts of wrongdoings of public officials giving them more liberty to engage in corruption. It seems as though the drafters of the new constitution were more driven by a desire to control the CIAA than empowering and equipping it with additional jurisdictions. Nonetheless, one cannot help but hope that eventually political leaders will realize the effective role of the CIAA and work towards making it completely independent and autonomous body.

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj.