Nepal’s political arena is reeling from yet another high-profile resignation. Home Minister Sudan Gurung announced his departure Wednesday, bowing to pressures from allegations tying him to money laundering suspect Deepak Bhatta. This is the second cabinet shake-up in Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s government, formed less than a month ago.
The controversy erupted over Gurung’s shareholding in Star Micro Insurance, a company entangled with Bhatta’s Infinity Holdings, Sulav Agrawal’s Jagdamba Holdings, and Shankar Group. Media investigations highlighted Gurung’s undeclared 2.5 million rupee stake, sparking outrage.
In a poignant Facebook message in Nepali, Gurung reflected on his honest service since taking office on April 13 (2082 BS). He addressed citizen concerns seriously, prioritizing ethics and public faith above his role. Referencing the Gen Z push for transparency, he called for collective responsibility in fostering good governance.
‘I take moral responsibility to allow unbiased scrutiny of related issues without any perceived conflict,’ he declared. Gurung appealed to journalists, Nepalis, and youth to demonstrate sacrifice and courage for a Ram Rajya-like ideal, honoring security forces and national youth.
Despite the claims, Gurung countered that his extensive stock investments, over 20 million rupees, are fully listed online, including micro-insurance ventures. The government’s website purportedly details them under declared shares.
This follows Labor Minister Kumar Shah’s removal for misconduct. Shah’s coalition, born from March 5 elections and results on March 8, saw him sworn in on March 27. The rapid turbulence underscores Nepal’s fragile post-election dynamics, where demands for clean leadership intensify.
