PM Shah relieves Labour Minister Sah

By A Staff Reporter

Kathmandu, Apr. 10: Prime Minister Balendra Shah has relieved Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security Dipak Kumar Sah of his duties on Thursday. The decision was taken in accordance with a recommendation from the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP).

Earlier on Thursday, RSP Chair Rabi Lamichhane had recommended action against Minister Sah, alleging that he had misused his official position by involving his wife in regular work as a member of the long-inactive Health Insurance Board (HIB).

On Wednesday, the party’s Central Disciplinary Commission, following a detailed study, had concluded that action should be taken against Sah. Citing that his conduct had seriously undermined the party’s image, ideals, principles and dignity, Chair Lamichhane forwarded the recommendation along with the commission’s report to Prime Minister Shah. 

Based on the party recommendation, Prime Minister Shah dismissed Minister Sah, his Press Adviser Deepa Dahal informed. 

The RSP said that Clause 25(4)(a) of its party statute assigns the party chair the responsibility of safeguarding the party’s ideals, principles and integrity. It further noted that Clause 69 provides for a ‘right to recall’ in cases of misuse of office, under which the party may withdraw an individual from their responsibilities. 

The recommendation was made to immediately relieve Minister Sah of his duties accordingly.

PM Shah has kept the portfolio of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security with himself. With this, he has the responsibility of three ministries, including Defence, and Industry, Commerce and Supplies, informed the Office of the President. 

Similarly, citing a lack of the expected seriousness in handling serious matter, Chair Lamichhane had also recommended that Minister for Health and Population Nisha Mehta be formally cautioned. Acting on this recommendation, Prime Minister Shah has also issued a warning to Minister Mehta.