Ward office locked after ward chair’s absence

BY OUR CORRESPONDENT,Khotang, Oct. 25: The Ward No. 4 office in Sakela Rural Municipality of Khotang district has been locked after the ward chairman did not return from the United States of America for nine months. 

The ward chairman, Arjun Kumar Katwal, elected from the CPN (Maoist Centre), had left for the USA on February 2, 2024. He has not returned yet, causing issues for locals who rely on the office for services.

Due to the prolonged absence, a multi-party political committee led by former Ward Chairman Krishna Prasad Bhattarai locked the office in protest. Even members of the CPN (Maoist Centre) participated in this action, accusing the chairman of neglecting his duties while staying in the USA, which has caused problems for the community.

The committee has demanded Katwal’s resignation and a by-election to elect new ward chair.

At present, Bhim Bahadur Khadka, a ward member, has been appointed as acting ward chair. Previously, the committee had given Katwal a 15-day ultimatum to return, but he did not return.