PM Shah comments on national vs. party interests amid IGP controversy

Prime Minister Balendra Shah posted on social media on Wednesday night, stating that saving the nation and saving a political party are different matters. Political circles widely interpret this comment as a response to criticism from Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairman Rabi Lamichhane regarding the government’s decision to remove the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
Lamichhane had questioned the justification for the government’s decision to remove the IGP, demanding that the government provide a clear explanation. Other RSP leaders also criticised the government, stating that the decision was made without consulting the party.
The government had on Tuesday removed Dan Bahadur Karki as the Inspector General of Nepal Police and appointed Additional Inspector General (AIG) Dr. Manoj Kumar KC as the 34th Inspector General of Nepal Police. Karki was subsequently assigned as a special security advisor to the Prime Minister. The newly appointed IGP KC assumed his duties on Tuesday after receiving his insignia from Home Minister Sudhan Gurung.
Karki, who was appointed as the 33rd IGP of Nepal Police on Kartik 24, 2082 (BS), was expected to serve until Chaitra 26, 2084 (BS), with approximately one year and five months remaining in his tenure. He has filed a writ petition with the Supreme Court challenging the government’s decision to remove him from his post.
Government spokesperson and Minister for Education and Sports, Sasmit Pokharel, stated that Karki’s new role as a special security advisor to the Prime Minister should not be considered a punitive action, but rather a change in responsibility.
The Police Act, 2012, Sub-section (2) of Section 9, stipulates that police personnel shall remain in their posts for a period desired by the Government of Nepal. However, the Supreme Court in Ashar 19, 2055 (BS), had ruled that the government’s decision to remove then-IGP Achyut Krishna Kharel was baseless, unjustified, and mala fide.
RSP Chairman Rabi Lamichhane stated that the government would justify its decision to remove the IGP, emphasizing that changes in the leadership of security agencies are sensitive matters. He also clarified that the party does not instruct the government on changes within the police organization and would question government decisions if necessary.
It remains unclear whom Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s social media post was specifically aimed at. Questions have also been raised regarding the objective basis and justification for the government’s decision to remove IGP Dan Bahadur Karki. The extent of the government’s authority to remove an incumbent IGP before the completion of their term, despite having the power to appoint one, is a legal question. Furthermore, it is not yet clear whether the position of Inspector General of Police is a responsibility guaranteed by law or an administrative post subject to political will. While other RSP leaders criticized the decision for lack of party consultation, detailed reactions and the party’s official stance are not fully available.