On Sunday, the Kaski District Court registered a case against Rabi Lamichhane on charges of cooperative fraud, organized crime, and money laundering. According to the charges filed by the Kaski District Attorney’s Office, Lamichhane allegedly embezzled NPR 33.7 million from the savings of Suryadarshan Cooperative, with the same amount claimed as compensation.
Additionally, the Attorney’s Office has demanded NPR 278.9 million from Lamichhane under the Money Laundering Prevention Act. Combining both charges, the total claim against Lamichhane exceeds NPR 307.1 million.
Seizure of Assets Demanded for Lamichhane and Wife Nikita Poudel
The government has also sought the confiscation of assets belonging to both Lamichhane and his wife, Nikita Poudel, to recover unaccounted funds.
Automatic Suspension of Parliamentary Position
As per Section 27 of the Money Laundering Prevention Act, 2008, Lamichhane’s position as a Member of the House of Representatives has been automatically suspended following the registration of the case. The provision states that any official, civil servant, or representative facing charges under this law is deemed suspended until the case is resolved.
Legal Provisions for Suspension
The Act specifies: “If any official or employee of an organized institution established under existing laws is detained or charged under Section 22 of this Act, they shall be considered automatically suspended until the case reaches a conclusion.”
This case has sparked widespread attention in Nepal’s political sphere. The court’s decision will have significant implications for Lamichhane’s political career and public image.
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