Press Chautari Nepal Condemns Arrest of Senior Political Leaders

BFIS News
2026 Mar 28 11:26

Press Chautari Nepal Condemns Arrest of Senior Political Leaders

Kathmandu. Press Chautari Nepal has expressed serious concern over the recent arrest of KP Sharma Oli, chairman of CPN-UML, and Ramesh Lekhak by the newly formed government.

In a press statement issued on Chaitra 14, 2082 (March 27, 2026), the organization criticized the government’s actions as “prejudiced and retaliatory,” alleging that the arrests were carried out without adequate study of the report prepared by the Gauri Bahadur Karki Commission.

Press Chautari Nepal emphasized the need for an impartial investigation into the incidents that occurred during protests on Bhadra 23 and 24, 2082. These incidents involved significant loss of life and property, as well as alleged infiltration aimed at turning demonstrations violent. The statement also highlighted attacks on national and private property, looting, arson, and assaults on media houses and journalists.

The organization expressed concern over what it described as an ongoing climate of threats and insecurity faced by journalists across the country. It argued that such issues have been overlooked in the commission’s report, despite objections raised by legal experts and civil society leaders.

Reaffirming its commitment to nationalism, democracy, the rule of law, and press freedom, Press Chautari Nepal stated that the detention of veteran leaders like Oli and Lekhak—both of whom have long political histories advocating for democratic rights—appears to be politically motivated.

The statement warned that arbitrary actions by authorities could push the country toward prolonged conflict. It called on the government to respect the rule of law, immediately release the detained leaders, and prevent further escalation of tensions.

Additionally, the organization urged media professionals, civil society members, legal experts, and citizens to unite against what it termed unlawful and vindictive actions.