Congress calls general convention financial-dealing allegations government-sponsored, demands independent probe

Nepali Congress has accused the government of growing arbitrary and authoritarian, warning it to immediately end its 'rule of fear and illusion'. After a meeting of top leaders on Wednesday, General Secretary Pradeep Paudel issued a six-point statement calling attempts to question the legitimacy of the general convention a conspiracy and orchestrated disinformation. The party said it would respond both politically and legally.

Addressing a press conference at the party's central office, Senior Vice-President Bishwo Prakash Sharma called allegations of financial dealings in the general convention baseless and claimed they were sponsored by the government. He demanded an independent, impartial, lawful and credible investigation into the allegations concerning legitimacy. He also said it was objectionable that a statement had come out of custody.

Sharma argued that raising questions after the special general convention had already concluded amounted to insulting the court, the Election Commission and the convention's representatives. Remarking that 'a farce is under way at Singha Durbar and Baluwatar', he said Congress favoured letting the government complete its full five-year term without obstruction.

Congress also objected to the Prime Minister's chief adviser, Kumar Bene, keeping Inam Sapkota's mobile phone for two days before sending it for forensic examination, and demanded an investigation. Sharma asked journalists, 'Are you safe?', raising questions about press freedom.