Kathmandu: The government’s decision to remove Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) Executive Director Kulman Ghising has triggered strong reactions from political leaders, lawmakers, artists, and the general public. Critics argue that the move is unjustified and will only fuel public outrage.
Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) lawmaker Toshima Karki accused the two-thirds majority government of targeting capable individuals. “By punishing Kulman Ghising, who freed the country from 18-hour-long power cuts, the government has added fuel to the fire of public anger. After Ravi, Balen, and now Kulman, this so-called democratic government seems determined to harass those who serve the people. We will question and resist this decision,” she said.
Fellow RSP lawmaker Nisha Dangi echoed similar sentiments, stating that the government is leading the country into darkness. “If the government continues to make decisions that harm the people instead of benefiting them, it will have to face the consequences. The people are aware and will no longer tolerate injustice,” she warned.
Singer Astha Raut expressed disbelief at the decision. “Is it true that the Cabinet meeting decided to remove Ghising? The happiness of the people is always looted in this country. Who will be the true patriot to change Nepal’s fate?” she questioned.
Meanwhile, CPN-UML leader Mahesh Basnet defended the move, stating that Ghising’s appointment had been unfair to Hitendra Dev Shakya, who has now been reinstated. “The Cabinet has righted a past wrong by reappointing Hitendra Dev Shakya. Congratulations to him,” Basnet remarked.
Comedian Manoj Gajurel acknowledged the controversy but highlighted Ghising’s popularity. “Whatever the reasons given for his removal, the fact remains that Kulman was, is, and will remain popular in the eyes of the public. Good night!” he wrote.
Nepali Congress General Secretary Bishwaprakash Sharma distanced his party from the decision, stating that there was no agreement at the Congress leadership level to remove Ghising. “We had urged, both internally and publicly, to let him complete his term. If there was any valid reason for action, it could have been taken later. This decision is entirely inappropriate,” he stated, tagging the Prime Minister’s official handle.
As public discontent grows, the government faces increasing pressure to justify its decision, with many questioning whether it was motivated by political interests rather than performance evaluation.
