Press Freedom Concern Over Correspondence from the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA)

Kathmandu – The Kathmandu branch of the Federation of Nepalese Journalists (FNJ) has strongly protested a letter sent by the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) to a financial daily newspaper. Through the letter, the commission requested the audio sources related to the news published on 11 Ashad 2082 (June 25) titled “Complaint filed to CIAA alleging that Minister of General Administration Gupta was involved in accepting bribes worth millions” and the news published on 18 Shrawan 2082 ( August 3 ) titled “Malpot Chief Paudel, implicated in a 7 million bribery case, protected by Minister Officer and Secretary”.

Ramesh Kumar Bohora, secretary of FNJ Kathmandu branch, stated in a press release issued on Tuesday, 3 Bhadra 2082 ( August 19 ), that such correspondence constitutes direct interference in press freedom, the right to information, and the democratic system. The branch clarified that, from the perspective of journalistic duty and ethical responsibility, it is imperative to publish facts on issues of public concern.

The press release emphasized that exposing corruption, irregularities, and the silence of responsible authorities is the duty of journalists. While there is a provision to approach the Press Council of Nepal if one is dissatisfied with a report, direct correspondence that exerts pressure on journalists is completely unacceptable.

According to Secretary Bohora, correspondence of this nature from a constitutional body like the CIAA can not only create pressure on journalists but also directly affect democratic values and citizens’ right to access information. He warned that such actions could challenge the balance among democratic institutions, as safeguarding press freedom is a constitutional responsibility of the state.

The branch urged the Government of Nepal to ensure press freedom, provide journalists with a fearless working environment, and strictly remind constitutional bodies to remain within their jurisdiction.