Draft National Strategy Plan on Corruption Control Includes Military, Judiciary, and Diplomatic Missions

The new government has released a draft of the National Strategic Plan against Corruption, proposing legal amendments to bring the Nepali Army, judiciary, and diplomatic missions under investigation for allegations of corruption and illegal asset acquisition. The draft document commits to amending nearly two dozen laws, including the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority Act 1991 and the Army Act 2006.

Furthermore, the draft mentions introducing eight new laws related to conflicts of interest, and controlling corruption-related activities in non-governmental and private sectors. A spokesperson from the Prime Minister’s Office recently stated that the draft document, which is currently open for public feedback, will be approved by the Cabinet. Following this, the government’s efforts to control corruption will proceed accordingly.

The plan covers issues ranging from the Commission to foreign diplomats’ expulsion, highlighting that currently there are 13 agencies in Nepal working in corruption prevention. These agencies are responsible for investigating and prosecuting corruption and money laundering, as well as resolving related allegations. Based on citizens’ feedback, the Cabinet will finalize the national action plan, which includes policy measures, responsible bodies, and timelines to control such offenses.

The draft strategic plan specifically proposes amendments to the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority Act 1991 to include investigations of policy-level corruption and complaints against officials of foreign organizations in Nepal. The Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs and the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority will receive support from the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers to complete the necessary legislative amendments within a one-year timeframe.