Investigation Committee Takes Statement from Sudhan Gurung, Inquiry Nearing Completion
May 26, Kathmandu – The committee investigating former Home Minister Sudhan Gurung has taken his statement as part of its inquiry. The committee conducted continuous questioning of Gurung over two days, Tuesday and Wednesday. A source from the committee confirmed that his statement has been recorded. “We have taken the statement. If necessary, we may call him again,” the source shared. Prior to recording the statement, the committee reportedly consulted relevant parties linked to the allegations against Gurung and conducted a thorough review of his asset declarations.
Following the cabinet decision dated May 11, a committee was formed to investigate Gurung. It is chaired by former High Court Justice Achyut Prasad Bhandari, with Comptroller and Auditor General Shobhakant Paudel and Deputy Attorney General Achyutmani Neupane serving as members. After recording Gurung’s statement, the committee has entered the final phase of its investigation and is preparing to submit its report within a few days, according to committee sources. The report is currently being written and is expected to be presented to the government in its final form soon. As the committee’s 15-day mandate is nearing its end, the report preparation is progressing swiftly.
Committee Chair Bhandari previously assured that the report would be clear, concise, and delivered on time. He emphasized that the report would present findings based firmly on evidence, regardless of whether the subject is found guilty or innocent.
What are the allegations against Sudhan Gurung? Businessman Deepak Bhatt was arrested in Kathmandu on March 2 in connection with a money laundering case and remains in police custody. Due to his partnership ties with Bhatt, Gurung became embroiled in controversy. When Gurung disclosed his asset details, it was revealed that he had concealed shares and held shares in a company associated with the controversial businessman. Following the disclosure, Gurung submitted his resignation to the Prime Minister on April 21. His asset declaration stirred various public comments, especially regarding land and gold holdings. In his resignation letter posted on Facebook, Gurung stated, “In recent days, I have taken seriously the questions, comments, and public interest raised by citizens regarding shares and related matters. For me, ethics matter more than position. Nothing is greater than public trust. I request a fair and impartial investigation into matters concerning me.”
The government formed the investigation committee on May 14, about 20 days after Gurung’s resignation. He stepped down due to the allegations against him. Since then, the Home Ministry has been operating directly under the Prime Minister’s office. If the committee clears him of wrongdoing, discussions have surfaced about the possibility of Gurung resuming his position as Home Minister.
