The Center for Media Research – Nepal (CMR-Nepal) organized an interaction program in Kathmandu on May 19, 2023, with a focus on addressing the urgent issues of corruption and good governance.
Distinguished experts shed light on the origins of corruption, its underlying causes, and potential solutions.
Speaking at the program, Former Secretary of Nepal Government Purna Chandra Bhattarai emphasized the dysfunctional nature of the corruption control mechanism, highlighting the necessity of a strong anti-corruption mission. Bhattarai stressed the crucial role of the media in combating corruption.
Dipesh Ghimire, an assistant professor at Tribhuvan University, pointed out the lack of accountability in the governing system and the absence of a clear framework for resource utilization.
Ghimire further criticized the governing system itself for facilitating corruption and emphasized the need for a merit-based approach. He also called attention to the media’s inadequate coverage of corruption issues in the private sector.
During the program, Devendra Bhattarai, a senior journalist from Kantipur Daily, shared his experience of uncovering the issue surrounding Bhutanese refugees scam. Bhattarai explained how victims approached him with substantial evidence, enabling him to delve deeper into the matter.
However, he also highlighted the challenges he faced, including media trials conducted by major political parties. Bhattarai raised concerns about the seriousness of government authorities in investigating the issue, especially considering the arrest of several political leaders and the influence of political pressure on law enforcement agencies.
Journalists from various media houses participated in the program.