Accountability

Critics argue that the tribunal, revived by Hasina’s own government in 2009 to try wartime crimes, has now transformed into a tool against political adversaries.

Provincial leaders in Nepal have accused the interim government of Prime Minister Sushila Karki of sidelining them with a “unilateral” budget freeze, crippling preparations for crucial March elections.

The split between the home ministry and the judicial commission led by former judge Gauri Bahadur Karki has become increasingly public, reflecting a deeper dilemma: to move swiftly with criminal probes, or to hold back until the commission delivers its findings.

In the wake of the New York Times’ revelations, key questions arise: Why was Golsteyn targeted so aggressively while the Nerkh case was quashed? Which decisions were taken higher up the chain of command? And what reforms, if any, will emerge to prevent recurrence?

One journalist interviewed by Amnesty said he believed his communications were under surveillance at all times.

The government claims that the bill includes amendments that address journalists’ concerns, and asserts it will not obstruct media freedom. The President said the law’s aim is not to curb free reporting.

Nepal's political landscape is in a state of turmoil, as major political parties have united to demand the reinstatement of the Parliament, which was dissolved by President Ram Chandra Poudel following a week of deadly anti-corruption protests.