Nepal CIAA launches probes into former prime ministers' aides and security press deal

The Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has launched investigations into the assets of former personal secretaries to three former prime ministers: KP Sharma Oli, Sher Bahadur Deuba, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal. The probe, initiated following a referral from the Department of Money Laundering Investigation, targets Rajesh Bajracharya, Bhanu Deuba, and Ganga Dahal on suspicion of money laundering.

Investigators have requested transaction and asset details from over 20 government and financial institutions, including the Nepal Rastra Bank. Rajesh Bajracharya is under scrutiny regarding the alleged lease of government land to the Yeti Group at below-market rates. Meanwhile, the CIAA is examining Bhanu Deuba’s bank accounts, property, and investments, and is also investigating the assets of Ganga Dahal’s husband, Jeevan Acharya.

Separately, the CIAA confirmed it is continuing a detailed investigation into allegations involving former Communications Minister Gokul Baskota. The case concerns a purported Rs 700 million commission negotiated during the procurement of a security printing press. The investigation follows the release of an audio recording in 2020 that allegedly captured discussions regarding procurement costs and commissions involving a Swiss company representative.