"In Politics, You Can't Predict When You'll Be Jailed": PM Oli

Kathmandu, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli emphasized the unpredictable nature of political imprisonment during his speech at the BP Koirala National Award 2081 ceremony in Baluwatar. He highlighted how political leaders in Nepal have historically faced incarceration due to biases and vendettas rather than genuine legal grounds.

Historical Context of Political Arrests

PM Oli recalled the period following the 2001 Royal Palace Massacre when King Gyanendra Shah assumed direct control. Despite no formal ban on political parties, numerous leaders were detained without proper justification. Oli pointed out how state mechanisms were often misused to target political opponents through fabricated cases.

Personal Experience with Political Persecution

Drawing from his own past, Oli referenced his 14-year imprisonment during the Panchayat regime for his involvement in communist activism. He expressed concern that similar tactics of silencing opposition through legal manipulation persist today.

Call for Fair Judicial Processes

The Prime Minister stressed the importance of maintaining judicial integrity and ensuring that legal systems are not exploited for political revenge. He urged institutions to remain impartial and resist being used as tools against dissenting voices.

Oli's remarks serve as a reminder of Nepal's ongoing struggle to balance political dissent with the rule of law, emphasizing the need for transparency and fairness in governance.