President Dismisses House of Representatives Secretary Harkaraj Rai

Kathmandu. President Ram Chandra Paudel has removed the Secretary of the House of Representatives, Harkaraj Rai, from his post. 

According to the Office of the President, he has been dismissed from his post effective Tuesday, Baisakh 29, 2083 BS.

The President took this decision based on the recommendation made by Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal on Baisakh 28 to remove Rai from his post. Spokesperson of the Office of the President, Ritesh Kumar Shakya, stated in a press release that he has been removed from his post in accordance with Section 6(e) of the Act Relating to the Salary, Service Conditions, and Facilities of the Secretary-General of the Federal Parliament, Secretary of the House of Representatives, and Secretary of the National Assembly, 2075 BS.

Earlier, on Baisakh 17, Speaker had sought clarification from Secretary Rai in accordance with the provision in Section 6(e) of the Act Relating to Service Conditions and Facilities of the Secretary-General and Secretaries of the Federal Parliament. Accordingly, Secretary Rai submitted his clarification response on Baisakh 21. 

There is a provision to recommend to the President for removal after seeking clarification if inefficiency is observed and accountability is not maintained in the official responsibilities. However, an opportunity to explain must be given before removal. Clarification was sought accordingly. 

Rai was recommended for appointment as Secretary on Poush 16, 2081 BS, upon the recommendation of the then Speaker Devraj Ghimire. 

According to Article 106, Sub-article 1 of the Constitution, the President appoints the Secretary upon recommendation for appointment to the post of Secretary by the Speaker.