KATHMANDU, April 8: Former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has responded to reports that the current government has issued an arrest warrant against him and his spouse, former Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba, in connection with asset verification and alleged financial irregularities.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook account on Wednesday, Deuba asserted that misleading and false information regarding his and his family’s assets has been circulating in the media. He clarified that during his tenure in public office, he and his family submitted accurate details of their assets in full compliance with Nepalese law.
An arrest warrant has been issued against the Deuba couple by the District Court in Kathmandu, according to a source at the Department of Money Laundering Investigation. The warrant reportedly relates to charges under money laundering provisions.
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The couple has been living under heightened public scrutiny following the Gen Z movement, during which protesters set fire to their house in Budhanilkantha. Several videos showing money burning inside the house circulated widely on social media, adding to the controversy.
Deuba emphasised his lifelong commitment to democratic principles, the rule of law, and transparent governance. “I have dedicated my entire life to the belief that for a democratic system to thrive in the country, the organs of the state must be independent and capable,” he said. “My life has been like an open book.”
Highlighting his track record in promoting transparency and accountability, Deuba noted his role in establishing legislation aimed at curbing corruption. The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority Act was enacted during his tenure as Home Minister in 1991, and the Corruption Prevention Act was implemented during his term as Prime Minister in 2002.
The Deuba couple are currently in Singapore for ongoing medical treatment. The former Prime Minister urged the public to remain patient and not be misled by exaggerated or sensationalised reports, assuring that the truth will gradually emerge over time.
The former Prime Minister’s statement comes amid heightened political scrutiny and reflects his continued insistence on transparency and adherence to legal norms regarding public office and personal assets.
