A complaint has been filed at the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) against Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Dr. Bishwanath Paudel, alleging that his academic qualifications, experience, and appointment process are illegal.
The anonymous complaint, submitted under the name “Rastrabhakta Nepal,” claims that Governor Paudel was appointed in violation of existing laws and regulations.
Earlier, in Jestha, advocates Bishal Thapa and Anantaraj Luintel had filed a writ petition at the Supreme Court, arguing that Paudel lacked the required educational background and had political affiliations.
Dr. Paudel was recommended by a selection committee formed in Poush 2079 and appointed by the Council of Ministers. However, the complaint states that he does not meet the criteria set by Section 22 of the Nepal Rastra Bank Act, 2058, which requires a master’s degree and at least 15 years of relevant experience.
According to the complaint, Paudel holds a bachelor’s degree in software engineering and a master’s in resource agriculture but lacks experience in commercial banking or financial institutions. It also alleges that his appointment was politically influenced, given his shareholding in Sanima Bank and his proximity to the Nepali Congress.
The complainant further claims that political favoritism in the appointment process has compromised the neutrality and credibility of Nepal Rastra Bank.
In response to a Supreme Court query, Governor Paudel has defended his qualifications, stating that his PhD exceeds the master’s level requirement outlined in the Act, and therefore he is not disqualified.
Originally published on bajarkochirfar.com | Translated and edited using AI tools with editorial review.
