The Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority has concluded its investigation into the controversial purchase of two wide-body aircraft, finding evidence of corruption. The Commission has decided to file charges against those involved, including former Tourism Minister Jeevan Bahadur Shahi and former Nepal Airlines Corporation General Manager Sugat Kansakar.
A high-level source within the Commission stated, “The decision to file a corruption case was made, citing clear misconduct in the aircraft purchase. The case will likely be submitted to a special court by Thursday or Friday.” Details regarding the specific charges, amounts involved, and other accused individuals remain confidential.
Shahi, now a central member of the Nepali Congress and a two-time member of the Karnali State Assembly, was Tourism Minister at the time of the scandal. Kansakar currently holds no public office.
The investigation stems from a complaint filed five years ago when the questionable aircraft procurement process began. After months of investigation, the Commission recently summoned representatives of three foreign companies for statements. Now, officials from both the Ministry of Tourism and Nepal Airlines Corporation implicated in the decision-making process face corruption charges.
