The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed concern over Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s recent statements and urged him to refrain from making provocative remarks.
The “Joint People's Movement Committee,” led by Nawaraj Subedi, is set to launch a “people's movement” on May 29. In remarks aimed at the event, PM Oli recently said that Kathmandu must be under the control of the CPN-UML on that day.
Joint Secretary Tikaram Pokharel, spokesperson for the NHRC, issued a statement on Monday expressing concern over PM Oli's remarks.
Addressing a training program for ward chairs organized by the UML’s Bagmati province committee on Sunday, PM Oli said that Kathmandu must be under the UML's control on May 29.
"From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the 29th, Kathmandu must be under the UML's control. Forget about which organization comes forward or who organizes what," he said at the event.
The pro-monarchy committee led by Subedi has also urged the NHRC to monitor the event on May 29.
"The Constitution and laws of Nepal do not prohibit expressing thoughts and opinions peacefully. In this context, the prime minister’s statement targeting others’ thoughts, expressions, and demonstrations is concerning," the commission said in the statement. "While every individual, group, and party has the freedom to express their views, provocative statements aimed at others that could incite confrontation go against the values and principles of human rights."
The human rights body has urged restraint in making statements, avoidance of negative remarks, and called on security agencies to strengthen peace and security in the capital and other areas.
