Rabi Lamichhane and the Cooperative Scandal: Justice or Political Game?

Rabi Lamichhane Exposes Cooperative Scandal: Is Justice Prevailing or a Political Game? | Analysis by Umanath Kattel? 

1. Rabi Lamichhane's Political Background and Rise to Prominence

Rabi Lamichhane emerged as a notable figure in Nepali politics, largely due to his media presence and the public's perception of him as a voice against corruption. Known for his straightforward, often provocative journalism, Lamichhane gained popularity through his work as a media personality. His transition into politics was marked by his ability to leverage public discontent, leading to the establishment of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which presented itself as a reformist and anti-corruption party aimed at dismantling political patronage systems. His charisma and media influence helped RSP secure a foothold in Nepali politics, making him a significant player despite his party's newness.

The Cooperative Loan Scandal Unfolds

Lamichhane's involvement in the Suryadarshan Savings Cooperative case began when Gagan Thapa of the Nepali Congress accused him of misappropriating funds. According to Thapa, Lamichhane had actively sought loans from the cooperative, allegedly using his direct signature on loan request forms and financial documents. These documents reportedly showed that he had diverted funds to support Gorkha Media Network, his media venture. This sparked an intense debate in Parliament, as Thapa and members of the Nepali Congress demanded a thorough investigation into Lamichhane's actions and their legality, citing financial misappropriation as a severe violation of trust for cooperative members who expected their savings to be safeguarded.

In response, Lamichhane and his supporters claimed that the accusations were politically motivated, aimed at stifling RSP's growing influence. He argued that he had no direct role in the cooperative's financial management, claiming he was an investor rather than a decision-maker in daily operations. This defense, however, was challenged by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) led by UML leader Surya Thapa. The JPC's findings contradicted Lamichhane's claims, uncovering evidence of cheques bearing Lamichhane's signature, as well as direct links between cooperative funds and Gorkha Media Network​.

Parliamentary Tensions and Public Reactions

As the JPC report surfaced, showing that Rs 9 crore had been used improperly, it exacerbated political tensions in Nepal. Nepali Congress members intensified calls for accountability, accusing Lamichhane of undermining public trust and cooperative principles. Parliament sessions saw frequent disruptions as opposition parties pressed for Lamichhane's resignation and legal action. The Congress Party argued that his actions, if proven, represented not only financial mismanagement but a betrayal of the cooperative system itself, a structure intended to benefit its members, many of whom are from lower-income backgrounds.

Lamichhane's supporters, on the other hand, defended him staunchly, alleging that the accusations were a coordinated attack to diminish RSP's credibility and influence. They claimed the ruling coalition was threatened by RSP's reformist agenda and, hence, targeted Lamichhane as a way to destabilize the party. This polarization created a substantial divide, with citizens rallying either to defend Lamichhane or to demand his prosecution. Social media was flooded with discussions, with hashtags and campaigns both in support of and against Lamichhane trending across platforms​.

The Formation and Findings of the Joint Parliamentary Committee

The JPC investigation, led by UML leader Surya Thapa, was tasked with determining Lamichhane's involvement in the cooperative scandal. The committee conducted an extensive review, analyzing documents, checking financial transactions, and interviewing cooperative officials. The JPC's final report confirmed that Lamichhane had authorized financial transfers from the cooperative to Gorkha Media, contrary to his previous statements that he was merely a passive investor. The report also highlighted the role of Git Bahadur Rai, a cooperative director implicated in financial misconduct, and noted that Rai might have facilitated the fund transfers.